BUJUMBURA December 10th (ABP) – The director general of the Burundian bureau of standardization and quality control (BBN), Mr. Severin Sindayikengera held, Tuesday, December 5, 2023 in Bujumbura, a meeting for managers of local industries and importers of alcoholic beverages, to find solutions to the current problem of alcoholic beverages in Burundi.
Mr. Sindayikengera told the press that the meeting aimed to discuss solutions that could benefit importers, producers and consumers of alcoholic beverages to avoid losses on all sides.
He specified that that meeting was organized at a time when the Ministry of Trade, Transport, Industry and Tourism had released a press release inviting importers and industry managers to use 750 ml packaging that is also breakable until January 1, 2024, to preserve those alcoholic beverages with a view to protecting the health of the people.
Importers and producers of those drinks in turn pointed out that the measure taken by the ministry responsible for the industry came at a time when they had already placed orders for packaging abroad and paid taxes. It is for that purpose that they are asking that the time be postponed to release the drinks in their stocks.
Mr. Sindayikengera agreed to submit their grievances to the minister to see if it is possible to restructure the press release relating to the packaging of alcoholic beverages.
The Director General of the BBN took that opportunity to invite the Burundian population to consume alcoholic drinks after eating and responsibly, recalling that those drinks produced in Burundi respect the standards.
Mr. Sindayikengera further reminded participants that the BBN has a challenge linked to the lack of sufficient staff for the proper functioning of that institution.