Belarus hopes to export $5.5 billion worth of agricultural products in 2019, Belarus' Vice Premier Vladimir Dvornik told the media on 29 October, BelTA has learned.
“Exports is an important goal set forth by the government. In January-August 2019, proceeds from the exports exceeded $3 billion. We see that we can reach at least $5.5 billion by the end of the year. This year's exports are estimated at 104% as against the previous year,” the vice premier said.
According to Vladimir Dvornik, Belarus produces more farm products than the country can consume. The focus is not only on the volumes but also on the price factor, so that products could stay affordable. “We provide 100% of the volume that is necessary for the vital activity of our state (I mean foodstuffs). The head of state orients us, first of all, on prices. We are constantly monitoring these prices, including comparing them with the neighboring countries,” the vice premier said.
He expressed confidence that farmers would complete the harvest by 7 November, the deadline set forth by the president. “Today there are only two crops left to harvest: maize and beet. The harvest is almost complete. We are going to meet the deadline set forth by the head of state,” Vladimir Dvornik said.