After the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic, many economic processes in the world stopped. Kyrgyzstan felt this significantly after the closure of its borders with China. In addition, it forced businessmen to rethink many processes. So the business communities of the CIS began to look more towards digital technologies. Now, for example, online services, the number of services and stores that offer delivery via mobile applications has increased. This makes life much easier for people, and also helps to be safe during the pandemic.
However, the transition to a digital economy is only a small part of what needs to be arranged in society now. Given that the country is currently in a difficult economic situation, it is necessary to work in several directions at once, improve relations with existing partners, and also look for new ones. So last week an event was held, during which key partners and participants of the Ready4Trade initiative discussed the main results of the preparatory phase of the project and the planned activities for the next three years of the project.
The Ready4Trade project in Central Asia aims to develop intra-regional and international trade in the Central Asian countries by increasing the transparency of cross-border requirements, removing regulatory and procedural barriers, strengthening the ability of businesses to comply with trade formalities and standards, e-commerce.
During the event, Daniar Imanaliev, First Deputy Minister of Economy and Finance of Kyrgyzsan, Eduard Auer, Ambassador, Head of the EU Delegation to the Kyrgyz Republic, Pamela Coke-Hamilton, Executive Director of International Trade Center (ITC) made presentations.
Daniyar Imanaliev, First Deputy Minister of Economy and Finance of the Kyrgyz Republic, noted that representatives of small and medium-sized businesses were particularly affected by the pandemic.
“Expert support is especially important for us in overcoming the crisis caused by the negative impact of the COVID-19 epidemic on economic processes, both around the world and in our country. Small and medium-sized businesses are particularly affected by the impact of the global economic downturn caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. We need to increase the resilience of small and medium-sized enterprises and help them adapt to the growing digitalization of the economy in order to reduce the risks they face,” Imanaliev said.
It has been repeatedly noted that a similar situation is observed not only in Kyrgyzstan, but in the entire world. There were several main factors in the republic due to which there are problems with entrepreneurs - the closure of borders, lockdown, people began to spend less and prefer to save money. A common problem was that factories significantly limited the production of various goods, which in turn caused a shortage. So, for example, in connection with this, computers and accessories for them have significantly risen in price.
Now, when quarantine measures have become easier, many processes are returning to their places. Now it is necessary to carry out close work with old and new partners. Thus, during the event, the Ambassador of the European Union to Kyrgyzstan, Eduard Auer, said that the country now has factors that can contribute to entering the European markets.
“The European Union strives to strengthen economic relations, develop trade and infrastructure ties. Investing and strengthening regional ties, as well as close interaction with Europe, contribute to the development of the economies of the Central Asian countries. This, in turn, contributes to the growth of intraregional trade and opens up access to the European market. The Ready4Trade project demonstrates that through joint efforts, Kyrgyzstan has the potential to expand its export geography, further economic growth and create additional jobs. We are determined to further strengthen our ties with the countries of Central Asia, including Kyrgyzstan,” said Auer during his speech.
In addition, this project will help stimulate trade relations within Central Asia. Pamela Coke-Hamilton, Executive Director of the International Trade Center, spoke about this.
“This ambitious project testifies about renewed efforts to spur trade-led growth in Central Asia. ITC is pleased to work with legislators and the business community to support a more inclusive and sustainable approach to economic development, in particular by modernizing certain strategic areas such as trade facilitation and e-commerce,” said Pamela Coce-Hamilton.
In general, the Ministry of Economy notes that the implementation of measures can have an extremely positive effect on many economic processes, which include the simplification of trade procedures, as well as reduce the costs of entrepreneurs for various procedures.
The implementation of trade facilitation measures will have a positive effect on the economy of Kyrgyzstan and contribute to the development of cross-border trade, as well as reduce the costs of entrepreneurs. The Ready4Trade project supports government agencies in implementing measures to improve transparency of cross-border regulatory procedures, as well as to remove procedural barriers to trade and simplify existing procedures. The project also helps to empower businesses to meet international trade requirements and standards, and supports women entrepreneurs in their efforts to participate in international trade. The digitalization of the economy contributes to economic growth and creates additional jobs for young people, women and communities in the regions, the Ministry of Economy said in a statement.
Kabar News Agency
Comments
Post Comment