Sudan announces emergency plan to rebuild industrial sector
February 2, 2024 (PORT SUDAN) – In the wake of widespread destruction that crippled 90% of factories in Khartoum and other regions, Sudan’s Minister of Industry, Mahasen Ali Yaqoub, Friday unveiled an emergency plan to resuscitate the nation’s industrial sector.
Khartoum, the heart of Sudan’s political and economic activity, bore the brunt of the devastation caused by the war between the Sudanese army and the Rapid Support Forces, with consumer and technical goods production suffering significant blows.
In a statement to the official Sudan News Agency, Yaqoub outlined the ministry’s comprehensive plan through the Sudan News Agency, highlighting several key initiatives.
She said that factories relocated from the heavily damaged Khartoum to safer states will be revitalized, while new branches of existing Khartoum factories will be established in these regions, capitalizing on available resources and infrastructure.
The minister added that attracting industrial investments across safe states will be a top priority, with a particular focus on agricultural processing to achieve added value and bolster food security for both domestic consumption and export markets.
The rehabilitation plan of the Sudanese industrial sector strategically seeks to capitalize on preferential trade benefits granted under existing agreements. By effectively utilizing these advantages, the government hopes to facilitate the operation of currently stalled factories across the country and reintegrate them into the production cycle, she stressed.
The minister highlighted the need to leverage preferential trade agreements, the plan aims to facilitate the operation of stalled factories across the country and reintegrate them into the production cycle.
She further spoke about regional support, stressing that dedicated industry offices staffed by qualified personnel will be established in collaboration with local authorities in safe states. These offices will provide crucial support to existing strategic factories like sugar, cement, and mills, while also fostering the development of new ventures.
The plan recognizes the importance of small, craft, and rural industries, promoting their development and integration with larger operations to create a more collaborative and value-driven industrial landscape. An attractive environment for manufacturing enterprises will be fostered through land incentives, streamlined procedures, and exemption from unnecessary fees and levies.
Also, the Ministry of Finance will secure resources for establishing state-level offices and worker housing, ensuring the smooth implementation of the plan.
Finally, the minister underscored the need to enhance inter-sectoral collaboration. Robust coordination between relevant productive sectors, particularly agriculture in its various forms (plant, animal, and mineral resources), will be crucial to maximize the value of industrial exports and minimize the export of raw materials.
Minister Yaqoub acknowledged the immense task ahead but expressed firm belief in the plan’s ability to revitalize Sudan’s industrial sector and contribute to a more robust and resilient economy.
(ST)