Body constituted to examine the process of trade with Central Asia

Federal Minister for Commerce, Engr. Khurram Dastgir Khan constituted a high-powered committee to thoroughly examine the process of Pakistan’s trade with Afghanistan and Central Asia and suggest proposals to remove any impediment hindering the growth of trade in the region. The Committee comprises senior officers of Ministry of Commerce, Federal Board of Revenue and representatives of business community from KPK and Baluchistan which will bring all the stake holders on the same table to take decisions on the issues swiftly and with consensus.

A delegation of the Peshawar Chambers of Commerce and Industry (PCC&I) called on the Minister for Commerce to follow-up on the decisions taken on the visit of the Minister to PCC&I. The delegation expressed its concerns at the unwarranted political turbulence created in the country which in their view was detrimental to domestic commerce and Pakistan’s international trade and investment. They showed their resolve to play their due part to save the country’s economy from any damaging effect because of the current political upheaval and stay constantly in touch with their foreign business partners to maintain the flow of trade.

During the meeting the Minister said that the conduit of trade from Pakistan to Afghanistan and Central Asia is extremely important for Pakistan as it has the potential to increase Pakistan’s trade by several billions of dollars. He assured the delegation that the Ministry of Commerce will communicate with the concerned Ministries and organizations to remove any irritant which is discouraging the traders from following ambitious trade pursuits. He was of the view that the Central Asian are the ‘ready-made markets’ for Pakistani products, having huge demand and providing less transportation time thus saving the traders of the additional freight charges.

The Minister said that after taking all the relevant ministries and business community on board, the MoC will hold talks with the Afghanistan officials to facilitate the process of trade on the other side of border. This will require a thorough study of the whole process of trade and input from the business community as well.

The Minister showed willingness to help the PCC&I in the construction of Expo Center in Peshawar which will be used for the promotion of business activities in the province. To enhance the exports of gems and jewelry, the Minister directed the MoC to reinvigorate the Gems and Jewelry Development Institute of Pakistan.