Federal Government Plans Policy to Boost Local Production, Cut Imports

GOOBJOOG NEWS | MOGADISHU: The federal government of Somalia is developing a policy aimed at expanding domestic production and reducing reliance on imports, the trade minister said.

Jamaal Mohamed Hassan said the Ministry of Commerce and Industry is working on a comprehensive framework to promote industrial growth and strengthen economic self-sufficiency.

He said Somalia imports many goods that could be produced locally, adding that the policy will prioritize boosting industrial output and creating jobs.

“We can add value to our livestock exports—processing animals into meat, utilizing hides for leather products, and making use of by-products,” the minister said, highlighting opportunities to expand value chains.

Hassan said Somalia is well positioned to increase production capacity, pointing to access to regional and international markets, including the East African Community, which the country joined in 2023.

The ministry said the initiative is part of broader government efforts to drive economic growth through industrialisation and better use of local resources.