NESVIZH DISTRICT, 3 August (BelTA) – It is necessary to ensure efficient harvesting and processing of sugar beets, Belarus' Prime Minister Roman Golovchenko said as he visited Gorodeya Sugar Refinery on 3 August, BelTA has learned.
“Mass harvesting of sugar beet will start in less than a month. At present, export prices for sugar are really good. All the refineries sell their products at a profit. In such conditions, it is important to maintain momentum and to make sure that the harvesting and processing of sugar beets are as efficient as possible,” said Roman Golovchenko.
During his trip the prime minister is inspecting the readiness of the sugar refineries for the new season, harvest prospects, as well as the targets for the sugar industry. “Sugar is a staple product and an export commodity. Besides, it is important for domestic manufacturers of confectionery products. The sugar refineries are the main employers in the towns where they are located. Therefore, the government pays so much attention to this industry,” stressed the prime minister.
The large-scale renovation of the sugar refineries in recent years has helped significantly improve the performance and technical parameters of the factories. “At the same time, there are still a lot of problems, the situation is not easy due to the high debt load of the refineries. Yet, the credit burden itself is not such a big issue provided that the companies have enough cash to service their debts. There is also a problem with the turnover of funds,” said Roman Golovchenko.
The government has taken appropriate action. “Guarantees have been provided for the repayment of loans issued for the new harvest. The approach to regulating sugar prices has been changed. The problems with sources of raw materials for each sugar refinery have been fixed,” the head of government noted.
