MFA: despite sanctions, Belarus’ exports grew by 14% in January-May

Despite the sanctions, the exports of Belarusian goods in January-May increased by 14 percent – as stated by Belarus’ Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Nazaruk during a traditional business briefing for the heads of Belarusian foreign institutions on co-operation with the Belarusian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BelCCI)

“Over five months, the exports of goods grew by 14 percent, generating an increase of $ 2bn. Despite the ongoing illegal sanctions pressure on Belarus, we have managed to successfully adapt to the new market conditions. We continue to search for the most optimal supply chains. As far as the current indicators are concerned, they inspire confidence that we will adequately fulfil the parameters of socio-economic development set by the President,” Igor Nazaruk underlined.

The Deputy Foreign Minister recalled that Belarus has been in difficult conditions for a long time.

“The sanctions policy of the West has been applied to us since 1996. They don’t like something all the time. All the time they have the right to punish us. This is contrary to international law. No one except the UN Security Council has the right to impose restrictions on independent and sovereign states. However, we now have a window of opportunity. We go where we are expected, where we are welcome, and where doors are opened for us. The time will come and they will form a queue to buy our wonderful products. And now we are developing new logistics chains, new supply chains. Business is like melt water: it will always find its way. Our business is active, mobile and we will succeed in countries where we are welcome,” he added.

The Deputy Foreign Minister urged diplomats to make maximum use of various instruments to support exports.

“This is our arsenal and our serious help. First of all, we are talking about the BelCCI and the National Centre for Marketing. A government decree is being prepared, which will clearly distribute functions between export support institutions. Each will have a clearly defined role and functionality. I also urge not to lose sight of the financial institutions of support. These are Presidential Decrees No. 466 and No. 534.”

According to Igor Nazaruk, the organisation of a business briefing is a traditional event.

“We always communicate with ambassadors on the platform of the BelCCI. We organise meetings of diplomats, heads of foreign missions and consular services with representatives of the real sector of the economy. This mutual enrichment creates chains for promoting Belarusian products to foreign markets,” he concluded.