LAHORE: A delegation from the School Bags Manufacturers Association visited the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) and discussed with its President Faheem-ur-Rehman Saigol the hardships faced by school bag industry following increase in raw material and other inputs used in production.
The meeting was also attended by Convener Muhammad Yousaf, Khalid Pervez, Muhammad Jameel, Imran Khalid, Sajid Naseem, Chaudhry Umar, Syed Zeeshan, Abdullah, Shahbaz Hameed, and other representatives.
The delegation members said the industry, which consists largely of small and medium-sized businesses, is facing multiple problems which need to be addressed immediately. They pointed out that prices of raw materials and other essential inputs used in the production of school bags have increased significantly in recent years, putting the industry under severe pressure. They warned that without timely support, the survival and growth of the sector could be affected.
They urged the government to significantly reduce or remove import duties on raw materials and other materials used in manufacturing school bags. They also called for incentives and subsidies to help local manufacturers overcome current challenges. According to the delegation, government support would not only strengthen the local industry but also create opportunities to increase school bag exports.
Speaking on the occasion, LCCI President Saigol said the Chamber has always urged the government to provide maximum support to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), as they are the backbone of the national economy. He said sustainable economic growth is not possible without the development of SMEs.
The LCCI President assured the delegation that the Lahore Chamber would effectively raise the industry’s concerns and legitimate demands with the relevant government authorities. He said the Chamber would continue to advocate for the protection, growth, and stability of the school bag industry at every available forum.
The LCCI President emphasized that providing special support to industries linked to the education sector, including school bag manufacturers, is essential not only for industrial growth but also for the promotion of education in the country.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026