SIALKOT: President Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), Majid Raza Bhutta has said that business community of this city was making adequate efforts for enhancing export volume despite some obstacles which could be removed by authorities.
Talking to APP on Monday, he underscored the need for formulation of "Export Policy" for bringing revolutionary changes in export sectors of the country. "In the absence of export policy the business community is confronted with multiple problems hindering exports of the country", he observed.
The SCCI President said there was a need for formation of short and long term Export Policies for boosting exports of the country. He urged the government to take steps for clearance of outstanding rebate claims to facilitate export sector, adding that blockage of rebate claims was creating financial constrains for the exporters.
"The government should review its decision of increasing gas tariff", he said, adding, the proposed increase will add to cost of production, and cause decline in exports.
Majid further said that there was major need of setting up training institutions in this export-oriented city and hub of cottage industry of the country.
Currently the business community is facing acute shortage of skilled force, he said. He disclosed that setting up of a Technical University in Sialkot was on the cards with estimatedly Rs. 3.40 billion.
Majid further revealed that in order to accommodate SMEs two industrial estates would be established in Sialkot, adding that the proposed industrial estates would be set up alongside the ring road.
SCCI President said that business community of this export hub was contributing to Export Development Fund (EDF) but Sialkot Chamber was deprived from the right to vote in EDF Board as it has been removed from EDF Board.
He stressed that Sialkot Chamber should be given right to vote in EDF keeping in view the importance of this city earning US $ 2 billion through exports.
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