SANDAKAN: Sabah Economic Advisory Council member, Tan Sri Datuk Seri Panglima Andrew Liew JP. is confident introducing barter trade with the southern Philippines will further spur the Sandakan’s economic growth.
The President of Sabah Chinese Chamber of Commerce would also benefit the economic development of neighbouring Kinabatangan and Beluran district.
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He hoped the Sabah government would relax restrictions and standardize management to allow barter trade to proceed legally and smoothly, thereby improving the three districts long-standing economic stagnation.
Tan Sri Andrew would Deputy Chief Minister cum Minister of Industry Industry, Entrepreneur Development and Transport, Datuk Ewon Benedict, who is on a working visit.
Barter trade holds significant traditional and commercial value for Sandakan, increasing local business opportunities and traders’ income.
Barter trade between Sabah and the southern Philippines has a long history, dating back to the 16th century.
Due to geographical proximity, long-term cultural and trade exchanges have involved the exchange of seafood, pearls, and spices.
