Punjab Zone Chairman of Pakistan Sugar Mills Association Javed Kayani made a courtesy call on Chief Minister Punjab Pervaiz Elahi along with the Executive Director of International Sugar Organisation, Dr Peter Baron.
Ijaz Ahmad, member central executive of the association, was also present on this occasion.
Dr Baron discussed salient features of the international sugar organisation and apprised Pervaiz Elahi about its working how it serves the interests of 61 member countries.
Pakistan being the ninth largest sugar producing country still has a missing link with ISO.
Dr Baron was of the view that Pakistan should send its official delegation, having PSMA representatives, to the forthcoming conference of ISO in Dominican Republic.
He said that India has been regularly participating in all meetings of the ISO, which provides a platform to understand the issues relating to sugar industry globally and to find a possible solution.
During the meeting, Javed briefed to the Chief Minister and told him that PSMA has requested Dr Peter Baron to help on two issues. One is preferential quota for sale of sugar in Europe which is a supportive measure, and India is availing a quota of 50,000 tons molasses imported from ACP/Mexico and Egypt is allowed duty free access in the EU. whereas, Pakistani molasses is subject to a duty of $9 per ton.
It is greatly affecting Pakistan's exports to the EU. Dr Peter Baron also discussed issues arising from the WTO and its repercussions but was hopeful that the governments would act prudently to adopt safeguard measures to protect local industry.
Javed said that under the WTO arrangement Pakistan can levy up to 150 percent duty on imported sugar which is presently 25 percent.
He requested Dr Baron to assist the PSMA in terms of the Safta agreement with the help of ISO so that PSMA could plead the case for inclusion on the list of sensitive items.