KARACHI: The Sindh government has pledged full support to Vanaspati manufacturers, particularly those from Punjab, to expand their industrial footprint in Karachi. Sindh’s Minister for Industry and Commerce, Jam Ikram Dharejo, outlined the government’s plans during a Pakistan Vanaspati Manufacturers Association (PVMA) general body meeting, committing to provide the necessary infrastructure, security, and utility services to attract industrial investments.
Minister Dharejo highlighted the establishment of industrial zones in Karachi as a step towards fostering industrial growth. “We have initiated industrial zones and are prioritizing a secure and business-friendly environment for industrialists,” Dharejo stated, emphasizing the government’s aim to boost ease of business and facilitate new investments in Sindh’s industrial sector.
The meeting included industry leaders, such as PVMA Chairman Sheikh Umer Rehan, Senior Vice Chairman Asjad Arif, and several manufacturers from Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, who expressed interest in setting up industries in Karachi.
Praise for Sindh Government’s Business Efforts
PVMA Chairman Sheikh Umer Rehan praised the Sindh government’s commitment to facilitating industry growth. He thanked Minister Dharejo for attending and noted that many manufacturers were already investing in Karachi’s industrial zones due to the government’s proactive approach. “With improved infrastructure and affordable utility facilities, we can boost further investment in Sindh,” Rehan said.
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Rehan also credited Dharejo for supporting initiatives previously proposed during his tenure at the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI), benefiting local businesses.
Minister Dharejo acknowledged the challenges manufacturers face, such as infrastructure needs and water scarcity, assuring the industry that these issues are priority areas for the government. He emphasized that the Sindh government, under Chief Minister Sindh, is committed to creating an environment that encourages industrial investment and development in the province.
Calls to Reduce Taxes on Edible Oils
Sheikh Umer Rehan highlighted the impact of global palm oil price increases on Pakistan’s edible oil and ghee industries. He noted PVMA’s efforts to minimize the burden on consumers but urged the government to reduce taxes and duties on edible oil products to make them more affordable. “Lowering taxes would allow us to provide edible oils and ghee at more accessible prices,” Rehan stated, stressing the importance of government support in controlling production costs.
Plans for Engagement with Federal Authorities
To ensure a stable supply of edible oils, PVMA plans to engage with the finance ministry and Federal Board of Revenue (FBR). Rehan emphasized the need for a streamlined supply chain and suggested reconsidering tax exemptions for FATA/PATA regions, which he argued could help avoid economic distortions in the market.
“If global edible oil prices stabilize, we’ll be able to offer further relief to consumers,” Rehan assured. He affirmed PVMA’s commitment to setting prices that consider consumers’ purchasing power, pledging to continue efforts to keep edible oil prices manageable despite global fluctuations.
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