Inspiring Meetings to Localize Agricultural Industries
Investment Magazine / Exclusive
The plan to localize industries in Yemen is progressing with remarkable determination, driven by strong commitment from both government bodies and the private sector. On Wednesday, January 1, 2025, Deputy Minister of Economy, Industry, and Investment, Ahmed Mohammed Al-Shoutari, chaired a meeting attended by the ministry's Undersecretary for the Industrial Sector, Ayman Al-Kholqi, along with directors and representatives of juice and sauce production factories. The meeting focused on advancing efforts to localize the production of juices and sauces in the country.
During the meeting, Al-Shoutari emphasized the pivotal role of the private sector in accelerating industrial development and localizing industries. He reaffirmed the ministry's commitment to replacing imports with high-quality local products through carefully planned initiatives. These initiatives are informed by precise data on the capabilities of local factories and aim to address challenges facing domestic producers to enhance production levels.
Al-Shoutari highlighted that localizing industries is a top priority for the ministry's leadership and part of the Government of Change and Construction program. This commitment is embedded within a comprehensive strategy to boost the industrial sector and protect local products under clear legal frameworks aligned with the new Investment Law.
Factory directors and representatives expressed their appreciation for the ministry's efforts to support local industries. They voiced their readiness to collaborate with the ministry and adopt its plans for industrial localization. Additionally, they underscored the importance of protecting local products from external competition and dumping practices, stressing the need to strengthen the partnership and mutual trust between the public and private sectors to enhance local production.
Efforts to localize industries in Yemen, particularly in the agricultural sector, are ongoing. The General Investment Authority plays a significant role in formulating the necessary strategies and action plans for industrial and agricultural investment and fostering collaboration among stakeholders. Notable progress has been achieved through productive cooperation between agricultural associations, the Chamber of Commerce, and partnerships between farmers and traders, forming part of a holistic strategy to boost local agricultural production and reduce dependence on imports.
In this regard, Ali Al-Hadi, President of the Sana’a Chamber of Commerce and Industry, told Investment Magazine that three factories specializing in fruit concentrates have already been purchased, with plans underway to acquire a fourth. This move will promote self-reliance and reduce potential losses for farmers, reflecting the private sector's commitment to supporting and developing local agricultural industries.
These efforts align with the government’s broader agenda to support and enhance local industries as part of its Change and Construction Program, highlighting the critical importance of public-private partnerships in achieving sustainable agricultural development.
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