There are plans to start assembling Belarusian agricultural machines in Tajikistan in autumn, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Belarus to Tajikistan with concurrent accreditation to Afghanistan Oleg Ivanov reported.
The ambassador took part in a seminar for heads of diplomatic missions and consular institutions of Belarus. Products of such Belarusian brands as Bobruiskagromash, MTZ, and Gomselmash will be assembled in Tajikistan. The product range will include more than ten models, including tractors, trailers, and mowers for high mountain areas. Tajikistan is also interested in utility vehicles made by Belarusian MAZ. Apart from that, the possibility of opening an educational center at premises of the assembly enterprise is under consideration.
According to Oleg Ivanov, Belarusian machines and vehicles have earned a good reputation in the region. Neighboring countries show an interest in the project. The diplomat noted the dynamic development of trade and economic ties with Tajikistan this year. At the same time the quantity indicators of mutual trade are below the potential of the two economies. In January-May Belarus-Tajikistan trade totaled $16.1 million, up by 170% YoY. Belarus’ export rose by 190%, to $14.4 million, with imports up by 90%. Belarus enjoyed a trade surplus to the tune of $12.7 million. The main Belarusian exports included sugar, malt, tractors, trucks, and petrochemical products.
“We are doing our best to step up cooperation. In the last 12 months the country welcomed more delegations than in the last five years. Many new products are now traded. Trends look good,” noted Oleg Ivanov.
Taking into account Tajikistan’s plans to develop its manufacturing and agricultural potential, the implementation of major infrastructure projects in mining industry, energy industry, and road construction and maintenance cooperation in the production sector and in manufacturing cooperation looks promising. Cooperation in agriculture is topical as well as cooperation in training personnel for agribusiness, transportation industry, road construction, healthcare, and pharmaceutics. Tajikistan is interested in buying BelAZ haul trucks. Over 200 BelAZ trucks are already in use in Tajikistan. The embassy is working on selling more of them as part of the project to build the Rogun hydropower plant.
Oleg Ivanov noted that in addition to selling their products Belarusian mechanical engineering companies provided aftersales services and maintenance. A dealership and service centers of Belarusian manufacturers have been established. (BelTA/Business World Magazine)
