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Call to level playing field for all light industry producers in Belarus
MINSK, 16 May (BelTA) – It is necessary to ensure equal terms of work for all light industry companies regardless of their form of ownership, Belarus President Aleksandr Lukashenko said on 16 May as he approved the appointment of the new chairperson of the Belarusian light industry concern Bellegprom, BelTA has learned.
“It is time we guarantee equal terms for all economic entities, including private companies, individual entrepreneurs and shuttle trades (they do not like this name, but how else can I call them?), so that everyone will be able to enjoy equal conditions, just like state-run companies. Let them compete,” Aleksandr Lukashenko said.
He noted that Belarus has inherited and preserved extensive light industry infrastructure that got a new lease on life after the collapse of the Soviet Union. Nevertheless, at present, the country imports a great deal of light industry products. “We bring all kinds of stuff from abroad as if we cannot produce it here. This is very visible, and the economic indicators prove it,” the president said.
The head of state instructed the newly appointed Bellegprom chief to give a new impetus to the industry, and bring fresh blood in it. “We need to shake people up. If people do not want to work, they should be replaced. There is virtually no time for the slow start. We need to give an impetus to the companies that can work today (there are many of them),” the president noted.
The president urged to focus on struggling companies, in particular, Sukno and Kamvol. As to Kamvol, all it takes is to start working properly. Not like now. Even in Pinsk you did not have such a situation as they do,” Aleksandr Lukashenko said addressing new Bellegprom chief Tatyana Lugina who was head of the Pinsk-based industry and trade company Polesie before. “It looks like they do not want to work,” the president added.
The head of state asked Tatyana Lugina to come to grips with the situation at these companies and take action to improve the situation. The president promised all kinds of support. “Naturally, it will not be easy, as this is a huge chunk of work. However, you can always count on my support,” he assured.
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