Is Girma Biru a closet CUD?
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Minister calls for increased private sector participation

Addis Ababa, July 06,2005 (ENA)- Trade and Industry Minister Girma Birru said the full participation of the private sector is crucial to speeding up the government’s efforts to promote industrial development in the country.

Speaking at the 2nd Investment Promotion Symposium organized by the Investment Commission for local investors, yesterday Girma said the participation of the private sector has been given due emphasis in the industrial development strategy.

The government has been providing the necessary support for local investors to be engaged in textile, meat, hides and skin, horticulture and agro-processing industry, Girma said.

Investors engaged in various investment sectors in the country have been widely using agriculture produces as their input, the Minister said, adding they have created jobs and are significantly contributing to the nation’s hard currency earnings.

Girma said agricultural and agro-industry products by local investors could become competitive in the international market if they are assisted by appropriate technology and professionals.

Girma said the government is ready to provide incentives and various supports as well as consultancy services for capable local investors interested in engaging in the sectors.

He added that pertinent government offices have been established at various levels to provide the necessary support for local investors.

Investment Commissioner Abi Wolde-Meskel on his part said the government will provide land reserved for industrial development for investors who want to be engaged in various development sectors.

According to the Commissioner, the government has been providing incentives for local investors exporting their products for the foreign market.