Given its volume, purchasing capacity and increasing demand for Belarusian products, the African market is among the most promising export destinations for Belarus, which is why this region is going to enjoy special attention in the coming years.

This statement came from Alexander Bashliy, BUCE head of foreign relations, as he met with a business delegation from the Togolese Republic and the Republic of Mali that paid an official visit to the headquarters of the Belarusian exchange platform in Minsk.

“African countries are of particular interest for us in terms of their potential to act as buyers of commodities available on our platform and as suppliers of raw materials sought after in Belarus. For example, we already have some positive experience of exporting sawn timber and milk powder to the African market, and I believe that we could use it to arrange exchange trading with Mali and Togo. Another viable export commodity that we should consider is sugar. Companies from Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Mongolia, Turkey and Uzbekistan are actively buying it at exchange auctions. As far as imports are concerned, Belarusian enterprises needs cacao and soya beans, cotton yarn and puree made of mango and other exotic fruits. We are ready to make an in-depth study of this market segment and gather a pool of Belarusian buyers with real offers”, Alexander Bashliy assured.

The talks also touched upon a range of other issues important for the African side and namely the procedure of obtaining an electronic digital signature, monitoring of exchange transactions, settlements under exchange contracts, terms of delivery and logistics.

The meeting resulted in the agreement to accredit the first company from Mali on BUCE. This will allow the African businessmen to study the prices on the Belarusian exchange market, delve deeper into the practical aspects of participation in exchange auctions and make pilot transaction, which will help devise an appropriate for further long-term cooperation.

As of May 12, 2025 there were 8350 foreign residents accredited on BUCE, including 15 from African countries: Egypt, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Senegal, Seychelles and the Republic of South Africa.