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Belarus identifies key food products for African market
MINSK, 30 October (BelTA) – Following the president’s meeting to discuss the development of cooperation with African countries, Belarusian Agriculture and Food Minister Yuri Gorlov revealed which Belarusian products are in demand on that market, BelTA has learned.
He explained that the African market is relatively new for Belarusian producers, especially in certain countries of the continent. Work to actively build ties and establish export supplies has only recently begun. “Nevertheless, there is a range of products where we are moving toward systematic cooperation,” the minister said. According to him, this includes exports of skimmed milk powder and baby food, with the latter being particularly sought after. The domestic industry has even adapted to the needs of the African market by supplying baby food in tin packaging. Export contracts have already been signed. Looking ahead, Belarus is also considering exports of beef and poultry meat to Africa.
The Agriculture and Food Ministry is also working closely with the Industry Ministry to organize deliveries of agricultural machinery to Africa, without which it is impossible to develop agriculture and address such a pressing issue for the continent as food security. Agreements have also been reached on the supply of plant protection products.
In addition, the Belarusian side is offering African countries joint projects to build agro-industrial infrastructure facilities, such as feed mills, dairy complexes, and poultry farms.
“This is not a quick path: it takes time to produce and process products, sometimes several years. Nevertheless, we are committed to this work,” Yuri Gorlov said. “It is not a matter of today alone, but we see real prospects for cooperation with African countries.”
According to the minister, in order to intensify work on the African track, increase supplies, and improve competitiveness, it is also necessary to focus on reducing production costs and optimizing the product range in line with the needs of this market.
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