ASTRAKHAN, 1 February (BelTA) – A Belarusian governmental delegation visited some enterprises in Russia’s Astrakhan in order to discuss mutual supplies and cooperation, including the import substitution programs, on 31 January, BelTA has learned.
Among the enterprises the delegation visited was PKF Dyuna-AST, a well-known Astrakhan manufacturer of polymer footwear.
“Our trade goes well in some sectors, namely foodstuffs, woodworking, furniture. But why is trade in light industry, footwear and clothing lagging behind? It is quite right that the prime minister criticized the work in the light industry sector. We meant to visit the footwear enterprise today, especially since it already cooperates with Belarus and supplies us with materials. The company says that it cannot enter the Belarusian market with the finished products. On the other hand, our companies engaged in supplying foodstuffs to Astrakhan Oblast say that it is not beneficial for them to go back without cargo. We have set a task to find goods to be supplied from Astrakhan to Belarus. Footwear is a unique sector. The company does design itself and has found its niche. We will promote its production in the Belarusian market,” Belarusian Ambassador to Russia Dmitry Krutoi said.
Further, the Belarusian delegation visited BT SVAP. The enterprise supplies pipe products and equipment to oil and gas and energy companies. “This pipe insulation manufacturer works in cooperation with Belarusian construction organizations that implement large projects in Russia, primarily with oil and gas companies. It was said repeatedly that we need to engage more actively in import substitution programs of Russian corporations. The question arises as to what place Belarus can take in the Russian programs to extend gas supply networks and replace imports in the Russian market and how to cooperate with partners,” the ambassador said.
In addition, the Belarusian delegation examined the opportunities of the special economic zone Lotus and visited Gexa-Lotus. The company produces geosynthetic materials to increase the strength of the soil during road works and for other purposes. The company buys polyester fabrics for road construction and fiberglass fabrics in Belarus. The parent organization Gexa Nonwoven Materials is currently obtaining a registration certificate for medical products in Belarus and expects to start deliveries. This is one of Russia's largest producers of disposable medical clothing, including complex surgical kits, gowns, and masks.
