MOSCOW, May 15. /TASS/. The measures taken by the Russian government to improve the economic situation are already yielding positive results, President Vladimir Putin said at a meeting on economic issues.
He also announced that the business program of the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF) will traditionally be extensive.
TASS has compiled the head of state’s key statements.
Economic situation
Measures taken by the government to improve the economic situation are already yielding positive results: "I would like to point out right away that the measures and decisions implemented recently by the Russian government have begun to yield a certain - let's say it cautiously but still - a certain positive result."
Economic statistics for March are positive: "This is indicated by positive statistics for March of this year."
It is necessary to consolidate the positive dynamics in the Russian economy so that growth becomes more sustainable: "I’m asking the government to continue to prioritize supporting economic growth. We need to ensure that the positive momentum that has emerged is consolidated and expands to more industries and sectors, thereby making economic growth more robust and sustainable."
Economic indicators
The unemployment rate in Russia "remains at a minimum level of 2.2%."
"Overall, the country’s GDP grew by 1.8% in March."
"Consumer activity accelerated in March. Wholesale trade grew by 8%, while retail trade increased by 6.2%."
"Industrial production increased by 2.3% in March, while manufacturing grew at a faster rate of 3%."
SPIEF business program
The SPIEF business program will traditionally be extensive: "The St. Petersburg International Economic Forum will take place soon, in early June. As per tradition, its business program will be quite extensive, filled with specific issues of importance to domestic businesses, our international partners, and the development of the entire Russian economy."