We should strive for improvement of exports and that is why it is important to talk about 2012 export perspectives, said Economy Minister Valon Saraqini at the opening of first working conference "How and Where to Export More and Better", organized by "Kapital Academy" on Wednesday.

"Relation between foreign trade and its growth to economic development has been confirmed in economic theory and statistical indicators of past years. Higher trade growth is reflected on higher GDP growth. Therefore, one of the basic objectives of the 2011-2015 programme is stimulation of economic development through financing and support of exports", said Saraqini.

According to him, reforms are directed towards increase of competitiveness, export promotion and aggressive campaign for attraction of foreign investments.

"For the purpose of achieving projected reforms, we are undertaking numerous measures for support of business export procedures. A significant portion of the measures is contained in documents 'Industrial Policy of Republic of Macedonia 2009-2020' and the Strategy for Export Promotion', added Saraqini.

He stressed the documents define export objectives towards creating the right balance between foreign investments and support to local companies in exports.

The European Union remains Macedonia's main exporting partner with more than 60 percent in 2011.