BelCCI: Belarus interested in increasing trade and economic co-operation with African countries

The expansion of trade and economic relations with African countries, including in the field of light industry, is becoming increasingly important for Belarus – as stated by the Head of the Department of Legal Support and Digital Technologies at the Belarusian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BelCCI), Vitaly Vabishchevich, sb.by reports

Mr. Vabishchevich believes the expansion of exports of products and services is the key area of co-operation between Belarus and Africa. “World Bank forecasts suggest that, in 2024, the total GDP growth of Sub-Saharan Africa will make 3.9 percent. At the same time, there is a need on the African continent for agricultural machinery, fertilisers, high-quality food products, the creation of value-added industries, including meat and milk processing ones, improving the quality of medical services, and training specialists. In addition, there is much agricultural land in Africa that can be processed,” he explained.

According to the official, systematic work is underway in Belarus to master new African markets. “The republic has established diplomatic relations with 51 of the 54 African states and all countries of the Middle East region. Our President has visited some African countries, trade and economic relations with Zimbabwe are actively developing, representative offices are opening – and many more. Therefore, it is definitely necessary to work in the African market,” he said.

At the same time, some legal points need to be taken into consideration since the market of the African continent is very heterogeneous: each country has its own law, business culture and business landscape. Foreign economic activity is associated with many risks.

“Our industries are interested in interacting with the African continent, and among them are mostly mechanical engineering, heavy, food and light industries. Businesses that are going to work in African countries, whose economic potential is ever growing, need to know more of the continent, including its legal and certification systems,” Mr. Vabishchevich added.