Opening of Bikfaya tobacco factory and creation of 300 new seasonal job opportunities

After the laying of its foundation, 7 months ago, the Regie tobacco factory in Bikfaya was opened yesterday following the completion of refurbishment and construction work, in a ceremony organised under the auspices of the Minister of Finance, Mohammed Safadi, with the presence of the President of the Regie, Nassif Saklawi and MP Sami Gemayel.
The factory which was designed by a pioneer Greek company according international standards was achieved at a total cost of USD 3.5 million, provided by the Regie, including some USD 400,000 donated by the Ginseng Tobacco International (GTI). The factory is expected to contribute to local the development of the local community, by creating around 300 new seasonal job opportunities among the youth population during at least 4 months every year.
It is important to note the significant contribution of the Regie to public finance and the national economy, with direct income reaching USD 366 million until last September, in addition to its important role in supporting tobacco farmers through purchasing their harvest at subsidized prices, and thus generating an overall net revenue of USD 577 million.
Source: Al-Nahar, Al-Safir, Al-Diyar 6 November 2013