Gov’t fully supports local industries–PM

RWAMAGANA-Prime Minister Pierre Damien Habumuremyi has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to provide home-grown industries maximum support. The head of government made the remarks Tuesday during a tour of SteelRwa industry that manufactures iron bars in Rwamagana District. He was accompanied by several ministers and other high ranking government officials. Reacting to a complaint from the company directors about the high taxes, particularly Value Added Tax (VAT), Habumuremyi said that respective ministries would adjust them swiftly to support the industry. “I think the complaint has a basis...if some importers enjoy VAT free on construction materials, why don’t you waive local industries of the VAT?” he wondered. The PM challenged the factory to produce enough iron bars to satisfy the needs of the local market. “I am surprised you export 20 percent of what you produce...maximise your production capacity to 36,000 tonnes as opposed to your current 20,000 tonnes per annum,” he challenged. He further appealed to the company to ensure a safe working environment for its staff. stephen.rwembeho@newtimes.co.rw

National

Gov’t fully supports local industries–PM