Set too high, it would further hobble the nation's capacity to expand exports.

The move was said to not only cover the gap, but also expand exports in general.

Egypt has been trying to expand its weapons production and exports.

The Minister said he hoped to deal with the financial crunch by expanding nuclear exports.

But with both countries eager to expand their reserves and exports of oil and gas, they have been taking a much harder line.

Chile has made an effort to expand nontraditional exports.

Instead, they are expanding both coffee production and exports.

Financing to help expand exports has been one of the greatest challenges for our business.

"Once again, expanding exports and increased capital expenditures are providing the real growth," he said.

That will require a more welcoming attitude to foreign investment and efforts to expand exports beyond oil.