By Innocent Nxumalo
INDUSTRIES in Bulawayo have commended the government’s Special Economic Zones (SEZ) model for improving their export capacity.
The Special Economic Zones (SEZ) model initiated by the Second Republic has been described as an effective business revival strategy that has given a reprieve to some Bulawayo industries which are consolidating a fair share of export markets.
Sharing experiences with Bulawayo stakeholders this Friday, industrialists testified that government interventions are paying off as they have utilised the facility to double production to meet the needs of local and foreign markets.
“We are part of the companies benefiting from the Special Economic Zones (SEZ). There are permit exemptions that we enjoy which has improved our capacity to acquire raw materials for us to be competitive on export market,” said Stephen Ncube, Arenel Compliance Manager.
“We continue to be stronger and stronger as a giant supplier of concrete products. The construction industry and local authorities are happy with what we churn out. Over 700 breadwinners of local households are employed here,” said Gerald Mudwamuse, Turnall Production Manager.
Bulawayo Metropolitan Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution Honourable Judith Ncube praised the resilience and commitment to bring back Bulawayo’s industrial glory by entities that continue to thrive.
“We are proud that these industries are committed to the economic cause of this country; some are even expanding to produce an assortment of new products. They have also shared their challenges. As a government, we are ready to take them up and assist them so that they reach maximum capacity utilisation,” said honourable Ncube.
Belmont, Kelvin, Donnington, Imvumila Industrial areas in Bulawayo were earmarked by the government for the awarding of certain privileges and exemptions as part of the drive to revive the manufacturing sector.
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