Message From President, Islamic Republic of Pakistan

I am pleased to know that in keeping with its tradition, the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) is organizing the 41st annual Export Trophy Awards Ceremony to honor the outstanding exporters during the financial year 2016-2017.
Exports serve as a catalyst of economic growth. The volume of exports is an index of the pace of economic development. For a developing country like Pakistan, exports earnings are of critical importance. With growing competition among the countries for promotion of exports, Pakistan will have to explore new avenues for marketing its traditional and non-traditional export items. Our manufacturers will have to exploit all available resources to increase our exports.
Pakistan's strategic location offers our manufacturers a great opportunity to capture the market in the region. We should, therefore, adopt innovative methods and promote public-private partnership for increasing both quality and quantity of our products.
I am glad that the present Government has taken measures to create an enabling environment for our exporters to make them competitive in international markets. Due to the government's business friendly policies our business community has not only consolidated its position in existing markets but is also capturing new ones. The government is committed to provide necessary facilities and incentives to the business community to further diversify and boost exports. In this regard, the incumbent government has also announced a Trade Enhancement Package to provide relief to the exporters in terms of taxes.
The business community of Pakistan has shown great resilience despite domestic and international challenges which deserve our commendation as it stood steadfast in trying circumstances and played its role in the development of the country's economy. The government is cognizant of the challenges faced by the business community and is doing its utmost to resolve them.
I greatly value the efforts of FPCCI to increase our export earnings. I am glad that FPCCI Export Trophy Awards Ceremony has evolved from merely a token of acknowledgement to an institution for the recognition of outstanding performance by exporters which is highly regarded both locally and globally. Such ceremonies undoubtedly provide encouragement to our exporters to achieve higher standards of quality and excellence. I would also like to appreciate contribution of the private entrepreneurs for promoting the image of the country through quality products. I extend my congratulations to the FPCCI and all the winners and wish them every success in their future endeavours.