LUSAKA, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema on Thursday called for the promotion of local products in order to improve the manufacturing sector in the country.
In remarks delivered during a conference of the Zambia Association of Manufacturers (ZAM), the Zambian president said the importance of the manufacturing sector to the government's economic transformation agenda could not be overemphasized as it was a vital sector in job creation.
The Zambian president however said businesses should ensure a steady supply of goods and services and ensure that prices were affordable.
The government, he said, was ready to work with manufacturers to grow their businesses and has since urged the association to come up with a list of issues that have been hindering the growth of the sector.
According to him, the capacities of local businesses need to be enhanced to ensure value addition, adding that the government was working at creating a conducive environment for businesses to thrive.
Chipoka Mulenga, Minister of Commerce, Trade and Industry said the manufacturing sector was vital to the realization of industrialization and economic transformation.
The conference was held as part of the 10th Annual Manufacturers Week which runs from Nov. 15 to 19.
On Wednesday, the commerce minister launched the "Proudly Zambia Expo" where local firms are showcasing their products. Enditem
