Mogadishu, SONNA – The Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, Mr. Mohamed Abdi Hayir Maareye, announced a strategic plan aimed at balancing trade exchanges between Somalia and its international partners. Speaking at the National Media Week meeting, Minister Mareye emphasized the importance of promoting locally produced goods and reducing the outflow of cash from the country.
Minister Mareye highlighted the government’s commitment to encouraging domestic production to minimize the importation of goods that can be produced locally. “We are currently importing products that we can easily produce here in Somalia, such as meat, fruits, and vegetables,” he stated. “Our goal is to ensure that other countries will be compelled to accept our products in exchange for theirs.”
The minister outlined a comprehensive plan to facilitate trade exchanges managed by local traders. This initiative aims to create a more balanced trade environment where Somalia’s exports are given equal importance as imports. “A significant amount of cash is being sent abroad for imports,” Minister Mareye noted. “It is crucial that we establish trade exchanges that benefit our economy and support our local producers.”
To achieve these goals, the government is conducting a thorough evaluation of the country’s production capabilities. This assessment will identify which products can be produced domestically and which need to be imported. “We are focusing on what Somalia can produce and what it cannot,” Minister Mareye explained. “This evaluation will guide our trade policies and ensure that we are making informed decisions that benefit our economy.”
Minister Mareye’s plan also calls for increased cooperation with international partners. By establishing reciprocal trade agreements, Somalia aims to create a more equitable trading system. “Every country we get products from will be forced to take products from us,” he asserted. This approach is expected to boost local industries and create more job opportunities for Somali citizens.
Minister Mareye’s announcement marks a significant step towards economic self-sufficiency for Somalia. By promoting local production and establishing balanced trade exchanges, the government aims to strengthen the national economy and reduce dependency on foreign imports. This initiative reflects a broader commitment to sustainable development and economic resilience in Somalia.
