Havana, Cuba.- Cuba has a broad portfolio of opportunities focused on iron and steel, light, chemical, and electronic and automatic industries, in line with the strategic interests of the country, according to a source from the sector.

Most of the projects are focused in the Mariel Special Development Zone (ZEDM) based on the advantages and projection of development in the site and the policies of the Ministry of Industries (Mindus), told Prensa Latina the General Director of Industrial Management of the institution, Carlos Alberto Gomez.

Gomez explained that of Mindus investment proposals in 2017, four businesses were approved in the ZEDM, and he added that there are currently other actions with foreign companies.

Therefore, the Investment Forum to be held at the Third Convention and International Exhibition of Cuban Industry (Cuba Industria 2018), from June 18 to 22, will be an ideal space to publicize the projections of the ministry and increase the interests of the entrepreneurs, he said.

He added that the four Higher Organizations of Business Management (OSDE) attached to Mindus -Iron and Steel, Light, Chemistry and Electronics and Automation- are present in the portfolio and correspond to the three lines of business approved by the entity: recycling, containers and packaging, and machines and equipment.

The modernization and expansion of the industry to produce and market rigid pipes for tobacco up to 30 million units per year, with a large impact on exports and the tourism market, will be among the main projects.

Cuba Industria 2018 has an extensive program of activities; 11 associated congresses, an investment forum, round tables and exchange panels will be developed, as well as an exhibition in two places: the Havana Convention Center and Pabexpo fairground.

According to the organizers of the event, it is estimated that some 1,600 national speakers and 400 foreigners from more than 25 countries will participate, including Russia, China, Spain, Italy, Argentina and Brazil.