The Transport Minister chaired a comprehensive meeting with the Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Businessmen’s Committee.

On October 13, 2023, Dr. Abdul Salam Hamid, the Minister of Transportation, chaired a significant meeting in Aden, the temporary capital of Yemen. The meeting convened representatives from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, as well as key figures from the business and finance sectors. Participants discussed pressing issues related to heavy transport pricing and its implications for the economy.

Key Attendees and Discussions

The meeting featured prominent attendees, including the Undersecretaries of the Ministry of Transportation for Land Transport, Fadl Al-Abadi, and the Governor of Aden for Transport Affairs, Khaled Al-Jaimlani. Additional participants included the Head of the General Authority for Regulating Land Transport, Faris Shaffal, President of the Aden Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Abubakar Baabid, and members of the Businessmen’s Committee. The discussions focused on collaborative strategies to address common concerns regarding transport operations and pricing among the involved parties.

Economic Challenges and Solutions

Participants examined various challenges hindering the private sector, particularly the impact of the economic situation on business activities, rising prices, and the resulting increase in transport fees. They also addressed issues concerning truck loads and the roles of land transport offices and unions. The meeting aimed to enhance land transport services within legal frameworks while brainstorming ideas to revitalize commercial and industrial activity in Aden and liberated governorates.

Strengthening Public-Private Partnerships

Minister Hamid emphasized the importance of a strong relationship between the Ministry of Transportation, the Ministry of Industry and Trade, and the private sector. He noted that this partnership is crucial for facilitating trade, managing port operations, and overcoming operational challenges. The Minister acknowledged the significant role played by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry during the war, highlighting its efforts to secure community needs and foster development partnerships.

Commitment to Addressing Sector Challenges

The Minister reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to resolving the difficulties faced by the private sector. He mentioned ongoing efforts to increase revenue collection points at the container port and follow up on recommendations from the Prime Minister’s meeting with the National Committee for Trade Facilitation. He stressed the necessity of unifying efforts to create a common framework that benefits all parties, enhances land transport services, respects private sector circumstances, and maintains public interest.

Call for Genuine Collaboration

Representatives from the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, members of the Businessmen’s Committee, and the Heavy Transport Union shared insights about the challenges they face. They expressed a strong desire for genuine partnerships with relevant ministries and stakeholders, aiming to positively impact citizens and the community.

Formation of a New Committee

The meeting concluded with the establishment of a committee comprising representatives from the private sector, the Land Transport Authority, local government in Aden, ports, and the Heavy Transport Union. This committee will work on finding solutions to the issues surrounding heavy transport fees and will monitor challenges faced by the private sector in collaboration with the relevant authorities.

The meeting marks a significant step toward addressing critical transport issues and fostering a collaborative environment for economic growth in Yemen.

 

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