Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 9 October (BelTA) – Belarus’ GDP will increase by 1.7% in 2017, Belarus' Deputy Prime Minister Vladimir Semashko said in an interview to the Belarus One TV channel, BelTA has learned.

“I think that the GDP goal will be reached this year and we will close 2017 with an increase of 1.7%,” the vice premier said.

In his words, the GDP growth made up 1.5% in January-August 2017. Industrial production went up 5.5%. “Unfortunately, agricultural output will contract a little – to 2.2-2.3%. At the same time the figures in the construction sector will demonstrate an increase,” Vladimir Semashko said.

“I welcome the policy of the National Bank as we have considerably decreased the refinancing rate,” the vice premier said.