Irina Novikova
MINSK, 5 February (BelTA) – At a seminar titled “Belarus and Southeast Asia in Search of New Cooperation Prospects,” held by the House of Representatives in the Oval Hall of the Government House, Professor Irina Novikova outlined potential areas for cooperation between Belarus and Southeast Asian nations, BelTA has learned.
Irina Novikova, who heads the Department of Management, Business Technologies, and Sustainable Development at Belarusian State Technological University and holds a doctorate in economics, identified agriculture as a key economic sector in the region. Southeast Asian countries are in dire need of fertilizers, she noted.
The expert also observed an investment boom in electronics and renewable energy across the region. “This is driven by their large populations, a significant youth demographic, and a growing middle class, which together create a vast domestic market for consumer goods and financial services,” she explained.
In terms of agricultural machinery, there is demand for tractors suited to small-scale farming, specifically 50-horsepower models, as well as heavy-duty trucks to support ongoing infrastructure modernization.
Rapid urbanization in cities such as Hanoi, Jakarta, and Manila is increasing the need for public transportation. The region requires buses and minibuses, alongside the modernization of existing transport.
Irina Novikova pointed out that many governments in the area are implementing programs to enhance urban mobility and reduce reliance on private vehicles.
Food products represent another important opportunity. Countries like Indonesia and the Philippines require substantial quantities of powdered milk, cheese, and butter. Regarding cheese, Irina Novikova noted that local consumers enjoy varieties with distinctive flavors, such as those with lilac or violet notes, which producers should consider.
“They also need grains and feed for poultry and livestock, meat and meat products, and are interested in prepared foods and snacks,” she continued. “The halal industry is growing. Belarus already has experience supplying halal products to Arab countries, so we should explore how we can further contribute to this segment.”
Additionally, Irina Novikova highlighted a high and rising demand for chemical products, including specialty chemicals for industry and electronics. With the textile sector expanding, there is also a need for dyes and additives for light industry.
Photos by Vitaly Pivovarchik
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