Lukashenka seeks additional staff members
In a significant move, Alexander Efimov, the former Minister of Industry, has returned to head the Amkodor concern as its general director. This change comes after Lukashenko's announcement in June 2025, signifying a strategic decision linking government leadership and the company's management.
Amkodor, one of Belarus's leading players in the mechanical engineering and agricultural machinery sector, is currently under renewed leadership and remains active. The company recently showcased new machinery, including a new sowing machine named "Mroya," at the Belagro 2025 international exhibition held in Minsk in early June. The event highlighted Amkodor's diverse product lineup, ranging from small machines to heavy machinery, indicating ongoing production and innovation.
The involvement of the current industry minister, Alexander Efimov, and the President's attention suggests government support and a possible focus on further developing the company.
Efimov's tenure as Minister of Industry was marked by establishing cooperation with several countries, including Cuba, Myanmar, Oman, Pakistan, Iran, Nicaragua, Zimbabwe, China, and Russia. However, his biography does not mention any military service, which is considered a drawback in Lukashenko's system of governance.
This change in leadership follows a period of increased losses and a rise in the number of loss-making enterprises in the country, with the industrial sector leading the way. The deficit of workers and specialists in Belarus has worsened over the year, and the focus on the Russian market has exacerbated imbalances in the economy.
In spring 2025, the authorities effectively nationalized Amkodor and put it under the management of "БелАЗ" following the nationalization from the disgraced businessman Alexander Shukutin. The management of Amkodor was subsequently transferred to Efimov.
Lukashenko has not yet announced any specific plans or strategies for revitalizing Amkodor, but he has placed some blame on Efimov for the current state of the concern, stating, "It started on your watch, so you fix it."
The outcome of such stories as the potential turnaround of Amkodor is well-known, with previous examples such as the Minsk Motorcycle and Bicycle Plant serving as precedents. The Prime Minister, Alexander Turchin, has stated that the obligations of the holding Amkodor are "huge" and without state support, the enterprise would struggle to operate.
In summary, Amkodor, under the leadership of Alexander Efimov, is currently undergoing a significant transformation. The company's active participation in national exhibitions, unveiling new machinery, and maintaining an extensive product range indicate a renewed focus on innovation and development. The government's support and strategic decision to link leadership and management suggest a commitment to Amkodor's future growth and success.
- The return of Alexander Efimov, the former Minister of Industry, as the general director of Amkodor indicates that the government's policy-and-legislation will likely play a significant role in the company's future, given its strategic decision linking government leadership and the company's management.
- The ongoing coverage of Amkodor's transformation under Alexander Efimov's leadership by general news outlets is essential, considering the political implications of the company's revitalization and its potential impact on Belarus's industrial sector and economy.
