BCCI urges Belarusian companies to upgrade production to boost exports

MINSK, 14 September (BelTA) – Production upgrade will enable Belarusian companies to increase the output and enhance the quality of products, thus expanding the export, Deputy Chairman of the Belarusian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) Vladimir Ulakhovich told BelTA commenting on the results of the President’s meeting to review the economy performance in 2012, evaluate the year-end results and the budget and monetary policy forecasts for 2013.

“Export is crucial for our economy and statehood; therefore, we have no other alternative but to expand export. Belarus is among the most export-oriented countries in the world. In Europe we are second only to Belgium and leave behind industrial giants likes France, Germany and others. Therefore, the task set by the head of state to increase export in 2013 is absolutely reasonable,” he said.

Belarus has all the capacities to fulfill this strategic target, however, domestic companies need to address certain issues in order to cement their foothold on traditional markets and reach out to new ones. “Belarusian machines and vehicles are presented very well on various markets. Belarusian machine producers realize that if their products fall short of the EU requirements, they will soon loose their market share in other countries, as well. We are ready to help them with certification of products. However, these products should meet the necessary requirements,” Vladimir Ulakhovich said. Therefore, the export target is interconnected with the upgrade target, the Deputy Chairman of the Belarusian Chamber of Commerce and Industry believes. “We will soon loose our competitive edge if we fail to upgrade the existing production facilities. It is crucial for expanding into foreign markets and for internal development of the very companies. Belarusian producers need to enhance quality to maintain a competitive edge,” he emphasized.

According to him, the Belarusian export policy is very pro-active and dynamic when it comes to exploring new sales markets. Belarus has outlined a list of priority markets to break into. The Belarusian Chamber of Commerce and Industry is willing to provide assistance to Belarusian companies and organizations in exporting their products. The BCCI has concluded about 200 agreements with chambers of commerce and industry of various countries. “Thanks to our cooperation with partners from other countries, we regularly hold business match making sessions and arrange business trips,” he said.

Exhibitions are another factor contributing to export growth. “We arrange negotiations with potential partners and help our delegates to make most of such events,” Vladimir Ulakhovich said. The Belarusian Chamber of Commerce and Industry is actively involved in certification of products and provides the necessary assistance to Belarusian exporters.

“These and other activities of the BCCI are aimed to help domestic companies reach out to new markets. We will do our utmost to fulfill the targets set by the head of state,” Vladimir Ulakhovich emphasized.