Local products for refugee programs

International organizations to encourage industrialists

The Ministry of Industry asked international organizations to give local industries preferential treatment in implementing their social programs aimed at Syrian refugees.

The high number of refugees is laying a heavy burden on the economy. Donor states, through international organizations, have a responsibility to support countries that welcome refugees.

Minister of Industry Vrej Sabounjian said: “International organizations should buy products made in Lebanon to supply refugees. If certain products were not manufactured in the country, local traders could secure them from foreign markets.”

Sabounjian met with representatives of international organizations to discuss how local industries can participate in providing Syrian refugees with essential supplies and services. International organizations execute different social, economic, and cultural programs.

Local industrialists produce a wide range of products for daily needs including medicines, clothes, foodstuffs, books, mattresses, blankets, and heating machines.

Sabounjian asked for more cooperation between international organizations abroad and the local production market to build mutually beneficial relations.