President Dr Lazarus Chakwera has underlined the need for the country’s business community to embrace innovation in a bid to maximise productivity.
The President also underscored the need for local manufacturers to improve their products for the country to compete on the international markets.
He made the remarks Saturday evening at Chikoko Bay State Lodge in Mangochi during a meeting with the Mangochi business operators.
“Over reliance on imports coupled with inability to produce products capable of competing on both local and international markets has stifled our progress as a country and that needs to change,” said Chakwera.
The country’s leader then urged local manufacturers to seek guidance from the government, saying his administration is ready to support local entrepreneurs.
“My administration is working tirelessly to create a conducive environment for local manufacturers to thrive,” said Chakwera.
On his part, Minister of Trade and Industry Sosten Gwengwe said his ministry is working with the country’s business community to ensure a conducive environment for their businesses.
“We are putting in place measures that are looking after the interests of the country’s entrepreneurs,” he said.
Speaking on behalf of the business operators, Vice-President for the Malawi Confederation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry, Arnold M’bwana commended Chakwera for sparing his time to meet business operators.
The dinner brought together renowned entrepreneurs, business moguls and innovators from Mangochi District.
