The Coca-Cola Company, popularly known as Freetown Cold Storage, is set to resume operations after shutting down several years ago.

The Minister of Trade and Industry, Edward Hinga Sandy said that the Company has presented a proposal to resume full operations, adding that the Company will, this time round, use local agricultural produce like tamarind, orange and mangoes among others to produce their drinks.

The trade minister added that the Company will also be partnering with another local company to produce alcohol.

Dr. Sandy noted that the resumption of the Company is in line with His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio’s vision to discourage mass importation into the country, especially with regard to basic foodstuffs and goods.

The minister drew reference to oil manufacturing companies that are also producing soap and seasoning with the help of Socfin, another local palm-producing company based in Pujehun.

He added that the resumption of the Company will create jobs for many young people in the country.

The opening of the Company is believed by some citizens of the country as a step in the right direction as the country will cease to import coca cola products from neighbouring countries.