These remarks were in response to a question from Deputy Tabyldy Muratbekov regarding the payment of salary debts and the potential consequences of layoffs for the unemployment rate in the region.
Torobaev clarified that the state has already settled three months of salary arrears for all 550 employees of the factory.
“We offered employees the option of voluntary resignation with a payment of two months' salary. Those who decide to stay will keep their jobs, and soon we will be able to provide them with work. As for the debt for utility services amounting to 248 million soms and credit obligations, the state will take this on, as the issue of the factory is under the control of the president,” he noted.
In addition, Torobaev added that currently, a glass container production facility is operating at the factory, employing about 200 people. To support it, 187 million soms have been allocated, which will allow the enterprise to operate for four months. There is also a line for the production of LED lamps, and plans are in place to increase the number of lines to five with a budget of 200 million soms. Negotiations are underway with an investor to launch the production of thermal insulation mineral wool, for which a raw material base of 700,000 tons is planned,” he continued.
According to the minister, based on the president's decree, the territory of the factory will be transformed into an industrial park with favorable conditions for business.
“Entrepreneurs are already showing interest. For example, one investor plans to build a pharmaceutical factory and is requesting 20,000 hectares of land with tax benefits. They assure that they will be able to create up to 500 jobs by the end of the year. If these projects are implemented, the workers of the Mailuu-Suu factory will not be left without work,” added Bakyt Torobaev.
