In the face of mounting challenges, Pakistan’s Task Force moves quickly to increase cement exports.
Under the direction of Mr. Haroon Akhtar Khan, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production, a high-level meeting was held today in an attempt to address the urgent issues confronting Pakistan’s cement and clinker export industries. Key government and industry stakeholders attended the discussion, which was centered on removing important obstacles to improving export competitiveness.
Among the attendees were Muhammad Shehryar Sultan, Chairman of the National Highway Authority, Mr. Muhammad Arif Habib of the All-Pakistan Cement Manufacturers’ Association, senior officials from the State Bank of Pakistan, and representatives from the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, the Board of Investment, the Port Qasim Authority, and the Pakistan Planning Commission.
Axle-load taxes, inadequate storage capacity, port congestion, and poor rail connectivity are some of the structural problems that impact exports and make Pakistan less competitive in regional and international markets. In his final remarks, Mr. Khan underlined the importance of cement exports to Pakistan’s economic development and job creation, as well as the government’s dedication to assisting the cement industry.
He said, “Increasing cement exports is essential for our trade balance,” and he urged all pertinent agencies to collaborate in order to come up with workable solutions. In order to boost Pakistan’s standing in the international market, Mr. Khan also gave the task force members instructions to act quickly to undertake infrastructure upgrades and policy changes.
The task force’s proposals will be implemented under the direction of the Ministry of Industries and Production, and a follow-up meeting to evaluate progress and complete a thorough export-enhancement plan is planned in ten days.
