Vitebsk region's exports grew by 32% in 2010

February 17, Vitebsk / Olga Bogacheva - BELTA /. Vitebsk region's exports in 2010 (excluding oil and oil products) increased by 32% compared to 2009 to $1.5 billion, while imports increased by 18% to $1 billion. The foreign trade balance was positive at $500 million. This was announced today by Konstantin Cherny, Deputy Chairman of the Economics Committee of the Vitebsk Regional Executive Committee, at a briefing on the results of the region's foreign economic activity last year, according to a BELTA correspondent. The export growth is due to increased supplies of ethylene polymers, fiberglass, linen fabrics, synthetic cords and fibers, acid compounds, as well as meat and dairy products. Exports from enterprises not under departmental subordination account for over 20% of the region's exports. Clothing, footwear, cables, and knitwear are supplied outside the republic. The FEZ "Vitebsk" contributes to the intensification of foreign trade activities by attracting investments in the innovation sphere, science-intensive and high-tech industries. The share of free economic zone organizations in the total export volume of the region is more than 8%. Trade and economic relations last year were carried out with 100 countries. The region's main partners include Ukraine, Kazakhstan, China, Moldova, Lithuania, Latvia, Poland, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Russia. The latter accounts for 70.5% of the trade turnover. "Over the past two years, we have managed to expand the presence of our goods in various regions of the world, moving away from dependence on a single sales market. Work in this direction will continue," said Konstantin Cherny. Among the positive trends in the region's foreign economic activity, the deputy chairman of the committee mentioned the growth of exports of tourist, educational, health, and business services. These areas have huge potential, which economic entities need to utilize as quickly as possible, added Konstantin Cherny. -0-