Jaber Continues Facilitating Agricultural Export Incentives: Government Ready to Support You

Minister of Finance Yassine Jaber received a delegation from the "Union of Importers and Exporters of Vegetables and Fruits," accompanied by his advisor for customs affairs Abdul Motalib Al-Hanawi. The meeting reviewed the current state of export operations and challenges faced by the sector, as well as possible measures to provide facilitations that would stimulate Lebanese agricultural exports.

Jaber confirmed after the meeting that "the government places great importance on enhancing the export of Lebanese agricultural production, especially following the removal of several obstacles that previously hindered truck passage, along with strengthening cargo verification procedures through the activation of customs scanning devices (scanners) at manufacturing sites and ports."

He explained that the delegation presented several issues and demands, including outstanding dues from previous years owed to the IEDAL Authority that exporters have not yet received, noting that "this matter will be examined and discussed within the government with the aim of reaching an appropriate resolution."

He added: "The discussion also covered the possibility of providing customs incentives or exemptions for importing new trucks dedicated to exports, particularly refrigerated trucks, given the shortage of such vehicles, which would help secure suitable transportation for long distances and enhance the delivery of Lebanese agricultural products to Arab and Gulf markets."

He pointed out that "any such customs exemptions require a decision from the Council of Ministers," emphasizing that "the union’s requests will be discussed with the Prime Minister and relevant ministers, paving the way for presenting the necessary proposals to the Council of Ministers."

Jaber also highlighted the efforts made by the Minister of Agriculture through his communications and visits to neighboring countries to boost Lebanese agricultural exports and open additional markets, affirming "the government’s readiness to cooperate in every way that supports this sector and revitalizes export activity."