Business news

MINSK, 21 November (BelTA) – In January-September 2018 the trade turnover between Belarus and Russia’s Republic of Karelia totaled $19.9 million, 22.7% up from the same period of last year. Trade was high on the agenda of the latest session of the working group in charge of advancing Belarus’ cooperation with Karelia, BelTA has learned.

In January-September 2018 Belarus’ export to Karelia rose by 130% to $14.1 million, with import at $5.8 million. The staple exports were trucks, orthopedic fixtures for treating bone fractures, artificial limbs, fresh and frozen fruits, sugar, natural leather footwear, flour, tires, and automobile bodies.

Belarusian Forestry Minister Vitaly Drozhzha is the head of the Belarusian part of the working group. During the session he stressed that the economic potential of Belarus and Karelia allows substantially expanding the mutual relations while keeping them balanced. In his words, in addition to selling multiple varieties of food Belarus can also provide assistance with enhancing Karelia’s agriculture. In particular, the delivery of the necessary agricultural machines and technology equipment (milking equipment) was mentioned. “We also invite you to consider the possibility of Belarusian companies taking part in the design and construction of animal farms and vegetable storage facilities using high-quality Belarusian technologies and construction materials. Cooperation in fish farming and fish processing also looks promising,” noted the official.

Belarus can also supply mining vehicles and trucks to Karelian mining companies, forestry industry machines, passenger vehicles, agricultural machines, road construction and utility vehicles. The sides are looking into ways to invigorate cooperation in other areas, too.

Participants of the session approved a draft plan of action on advancing Belarus-Karelia cooperation in 2019-2021.