OREANDA-NEWS. January 19, 2010. The Belarusian government expects an increase in foreign investment inflows in Belarus in 2010, Prime Minister Sergei Sidorsky said during his report to President Alexander Lukashenko late, the press service of the president reported.

In December 2009, the Belarusian government signed a framework agreement with the Export-Import Bank of China, which will enable large-scope investment cooperation in 2010, with around USD 5.7 billion in expected investment, Sidorsky said.

According to the premier, Belarus’ GDP grew 0.2% on the year in 2009, while industrial output decreased 2.8%. Output by companies subordinate to the Industry Ministry fell 22.7% on the year. Belneftekhim and Belgospischeprom concerns reported a growth in output year-on-year.

Farm output expanded 1.3% on the year in 2009, and export supplies increased to new destinations, especially Latin America, Southeast Asia and the Middle East.

Unsold inventories went down to 68% of the average monthly output as of January 1, 2010 from 95% in mid-2009.

“We are capable of improving this figure in 2010,” Sidorsky added.

Profitability in the manufacturing sector amounted to 10%, and GDP energy intensity fell almost 6%. Housing completion amounted to almost 6 million square meters.

Belarusian exports dropped less than 40% on the year in 2009, Sidorsky said.

All state programs were financed in full, and the 2009 budget was implemented as had been planned, the premier added.

Lukashenko reiterated that new export markets must be conquered.