MINSK, 16 April (BelTA) – The agricultural industry must aim for maximum processing of domestic raw materials, Belarusian President Aleksandr Lukashenko said at a meeting to discuss rural development and efficiency of the agricultural sector, BelTA has learned.
The head of state urged attentions to the processing sector. "We need to take a course for in-depth processing of raw materials, which creates high added value. Everything should be processed without exception," the Belarusian leader stressed. "The market gives our processors a chance to expand the range and geography of supplies, and gain a foothold in marginal segments."
Aleksandr Lukashenko criticized the insufficient utilization of production capacities, and in some places the low utilization, although the demand in foreign markets, especially for certain types of products, is high.
"There is lack of business acumen. Especially in the governors who are responsible for this sector of the economy," he said.
In this regard, the head of state is particularly concerned about Vitebsk Oblast. The Vitebsk, Orsha and Glubokoye meat processing plants are operating at a very low capacity. At the same time, these enterprises have been known to sell products in carcasses and half-carcasses through intermediaries.
"Guys, you will face the music!" the head of state issued a harsh warning.
The head of state recalled that the Orsha meat processing plant was built for government money and is now asking for budget support.
"Meanwhile it sells the things that can be processed and sold at a higher price. What is the reason?" the head of state asked.
"The task is to ensure 100% processing of domestic raw materials with high added value. To this end, I instruct the government to digitize the tasks of every region, enterprises and solve this problem," the Belarusian leader said.
