Huge import bill shows weakness of domestic industry � Seretse

Seretse
Seretse

The Minister of Trade and Industry, Vincent Seretse has said Botswana needs a robust business community willing to take calculated risks in building enterprises that can create more jobs.

Addressing participants at an SMME Pitso organised by the Local Enterprise Authority (LEA) yesterday, Seretse noted that the significant growth of the import bill, which currently stands at P68 billion, is a clear indication that Batswana are not self reliant as a country.

“Some of the commodities that are ‘quick wins’ suitable for our environment can be produced locally. Raw materials are available, there is reasonable cost of production and demand locally,” he said.

Editor's Comment
Micro-procurement maze demands urgent reform

Whilst celebrating milestones in inclusivity, with notably P5 billion awarded to vulnerable groups, the report sounds a 'siren' on a dangerous and growing trend: the ballooning use of micro-procurement. That this method, designed for small-scale, efficient purchases, now accounts for a staggering 25% (P8 billion) of total procurement value is not a sign of agility, but a 'red flag'. The PPRA’s warning is unequivocal and must be...

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