Leningrad Region sees huge potential for increasing trade turnover with Belarus

The Leningrad Region sees huge potential for increasing trade turnover with Belarus – as stated by Deputy Chairman of Russia’s Leningrad Region Government, Chairman of the Committee on Agro-Industrial and Fisheries Industry Oleg Malashchenkov in his talk with Belarus 1 TV channel

Oleg Malashchenko said, “Belarus is the main partner of the Leningrad Region. Judging by the results of 2022, we grew by 18 percent compared to 2021, and the figure totalled $837m.”

According to him, at a meeting between Belarus’ President Aleksandr Lukashenko and Governor of Russia’s Leningrad Region Aleksandr Drozdenko, the prospects for reaching $1bn in trade turnover were discussed.

“We hope that this year we will hit the mark,” noted Oleg Malashchenko. “New directions have opened. Compared to the previous year, technology has already increased by almost 50 percent. Last year we received just over 100 units, while this year 139 units have already been subsidised for agriculture. The range of items has expanded. Previously, only tractors were considered, while today we view both forage harvesting and grain harvesting equipment, as well as attachments, enabling to put the land into circulation. Belarus’ machine building is working at a faster pace, showing us worthy examples.”

Touching on the topic of cargo transshipment, he noted that the load on the Leningrad Region ports has increased significantly.

“The Baltic States showed themselves from the worst side, not like partners. When someone tries to close, no one will return to them,” added Oleg Malashchenko. “I’m convinced this will give a tremendous boost.” The potential for work is huge and increase in volumes is several-fold. The world is waiting for quality products.”

He also noted co-operation in agriculture. Despite the difficult climate, this year the Leningrad Region received its first food wheat thanks to seeds brought from Belarus.

“We have always held together, but today we are convinced that there is no closer partner who will never let down, no matter what difficult situations it is. This is a friendship that has been tested over the years. We were convinced that by lending a helping hand to each other, we can create a good product, become stronger and are taken into account,” concluded Oleg Malashchenko.