Belarus-Poland trade at $2bn in January-October
2011-12-08 12:40:50
The Belarusian-Polish trade reached $2 billion in January-October this year. It was $1.5 billion in January-October 2010, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Belarus to Poland Viktor Gaisenok said at the Polish-Belarusian economic forum Neighborhood 2011 in Biala Podlaska on 7 December.
In his words, the Belarusian export totaled $942 million this year, up more than 24%. The import from Poland increased by 29% to $1.64 billion.
According to the diplomat, trade and economic relations between the two countries have been vibrant despite the recent global crisis. Today Poland is one of Belarus’ main economic partners in Europe. It accounts for over 10% of the total Belarus-EU trade.
Belarus’ main exports to Poland include refined products, potash fertilizers, tractors, steel products and timber. Poland’s FDI in the Belarusian economy made up $60.5 million in the first nine months of 2011. Poland is also taking part in a number of investment projects in Belarus. Among them is the construction of the fifth sugar mill, a large trade and logistics agricultural center in Minsk District and the second stage of the Victoria Hotel in Minsk.
Viktor Gaisenok believes that the joint construction of the Bernady-Priluki-Malashevichi oil pipeline of the Ross-Narev transboundary power line will add an additional impetus to the bilateral economic cooperation and infrastructure development. The Ambassador also stressed that with the Customs Union and the single economic space (which becomes functional on 1 January 2012), Belarus will make the best investment and production platform. The product made in Belarus will be freely sold on the Customs Union market of over 170 million people.
Belarus is interested in a dynamic all-round trade and economic cooperation with Poland, in the implementation of new projects in a bid to strengthen the bilateral economic ties. Keeping in mind the geographic, historical and cultural vicinity of Belarus and Poland, the two countries have all things needed to achieve this, the Belarusian diplomat is confident.
Viktor Gaisenok emphasized the important role of the forum and expressed gratitude to its organizers – the Polish-Belarusian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Belarusian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Marshal of the Lublin Province and Biala Podlaska authorities.