A delegation of Pakistan Carpet Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PCMEA) called on Chief Collector Customs Peshawar, Khawaja Khurram Naeem, and Collector Matin Alam to discuss issues related to the Torkham border.
Pattern-in-Chief Abdul Latif Malik, Vice Chairman Riaz Ahmed, and Senior Central Leader Usman Ashraf apprised the FBR officials of the problems faced in the import of partially manufactured carpet goods through the Torkham border and the resulting unusual delays in the dispatch of export orders to various countries, negatively impacting exports and foreign exchange earnings.
Chief Collector Khawaja Khurram Naeem assured the delegation that all possible steps would be taken to resolve the issues. The delegation also presented shields to the FBR officials on behalf of the association.
The visiting delegation briefed Chairman PCMEA Mian Atiqur Rehman and members of the Executive Body about the meeting.
Chairman Mian Atiqur Rehman and Vice Chairman Riaz Ahmed expressed concerns that while the government aims to increase exports to $100 billion, it is not taking sufficient interest in removing unnecessary obstacles hindering the growth of exports.
They emphasized that the handmade carpet industry urgently needs government support and patronage, but it is being completely ignored.
They urged the government to restore the zero-rated regime for the industry and provide subsidies on freight to enable Pakistani carpets to compete with traditional rival countries in global markets.—PR
