A. Lukashenko supported the idea of creating a large leather and fur enterprise in Vitebsk

"The Governor of the Vitebsk region proposed creating a powerful leather and fur enterprise on the basis of the Vitebsk Fur Factory with the participation of "Marko" and "Belvest". One of the Korean firms has already shown interest in investing in this enterprise," the press service noted.

President of Belarus Alexander Lukashenko supported the idea of creating a large leather and fur enterprise on the basis of the Vitebsk Fur Factory. This was reported to a BELTA correspondent by the press service of the Belarusian leader following a meeting on the development of the leather and footwear industry. "The Governor of the Vitebsk region proposed creating a powerful leather and fur enterprise on the basis of the Vitebsk Fur Factory with the participation of "Marko" and "Belvest".

One of the Korean firms has already shown interest in investing in this enterprise," the press service noted. "Thus, we would create a leather and fur enterprise that would provide finished raw materials and components. And then we would really reduce imports by about 70%," said the Governor of the Vitebsk region Alexander Kosinets. The General Director of SOOO "Marko" Nikolai Martynov reported that a framework agreement has already been signed with the Korean firm, and they would like to build or modernize a tannery in Belarus. Alexander Kosinets also said that by the end of 2015, the enterprises "Marko" and "Belvest" may reach production volumes of 12 million pairs of shoes, which is twice the current level. Alexander Lukashenko supported this project, promising to provide certain preferences if necessary.

"If you are ready, prepare a draft decree for this specific association. Then Gatovo (Minsk Leather Production Association OJSC in Gatovo, Minsk region. - BELTA note) and your fur factory will be enough," the President said.