The Prime Minister chaired a meeting of the National Trade Facilitation Committee, emphasizing its role in enhancing public-private partnerships.

On Thursday, Prime Minister Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak convened a meeting of the National Trade Facilitation Committee in the temporary capital of Aden. The meeting aimed to discuss plans for modernizing the committee’s operations and mechanisms. This initiative aligns with a broader vision to improve the business environment and strengthen partnerships with the private sector while ensuring a smooth flow of commercial imports into Yemen.

Reviewing Achievements and Upcoming Tasks

During the meeting, which included Minister of Industry and Trade and committee chair Mohammed Al-Ashwal, participants reviewed the committee’s accomplishments since its inception. They also outlined upcoming responsibilities, including developing a national strategy for trade facilitation, overseeing the implementation of related reforms, and contributing to the improvement of the business environment. Additionally, the committee plans to provide feedback on legal and regulatory frameworks governing commercial policies and offer recommendations for enhancements.

Expanding the Committee’s Scope

The committee comprises key stakeholders, including the Deputy Minister of Finance, various ministry officials, heads of relevant government agencies, and representatives from the General Federation of Chambers of Commerce, customs brokers, and shipping companies. Members emphasized the need to broaden the committee’s scope to incorporate new government directions aimed at enhancing public-private partnerships. They also discussed the importance of adhering to international commitments, particularly those related to global trade agreements, as Yemen is a member of the World Trade Organization.

Prime Minister’s Vision for Public-Private Partnership

Prime Minister bin Mubarak reiterated the significance of transforming the partnership between the government and the private sector into a tangible reality. He called for creating an attractive investment environment not only in trade but across various infrastructure and service sectors. The Prime Minister highlighted the committee’s crucial role in strengthening partnerships and addressing existing challenges in the commercial and economic sectors. He also emphasized the need to rectify current imbalances in the performance of ministries and government institutions involved in this partnership.

Addressing Regional and Global Challenges

The Prime Minister discussed the recent regional and global changes, stressing the importance of preparing for potential impacts and developing mechanisms to adapt to these challenges. He tasked the committee with proposing solutions and assisting the government in enhancing developmental partnerships with countries and organizations. He underscored the government’s ongoing economic, financial, and administrative reforms, along with anti-corruption efforts, which are now essential to halt the country’s decline.

Commitment to Implementing New Directions

Committee members from both government and the private sector expressed their commitment to the Prime Minister’s directives. They pledged to adopt these guidelines as a framework for the committee’s work moving forward. Members noted that by facilitating trade and enhancing partnerships with the private sector, the committee aims to alleviate the economic burdens faced by citizens.

Attendance and Support

The meeting also saw the presence of Anis Baharitha, Director of the Prime Minister’s Office; Salem Salman, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade; and Ambassador Mujib Osman, the Prime Minister’s advisor.

This gathering marks a significant step toward fostering a collaborative environment between the government and private sector, aiming to enhance trade facilitation in Yemen.

 

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