RECORDER REPORT

KARACHI: President Dr Arif Alvi has said country’s exports are on increasing trajectory and showed a growth of 5% in the first quarter of current financial year.

He was addressing a launch ceremony of 16th My Karachi - Oasis of Harmony Exhibition (2019), being organized by Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) here at local hotel on Saturday.

He said Pakistan’s exports could be further enhanced considering the true potential of our businessmen and manufacturing capabilities.

“All of us would have to play our role in it as it is imperative for the progress and development of the motherland,” Alvi said.

Through active trade diplomacy, he said, the government is trying to get better market access for the local businesses in international markets by concluding Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) and Preferential Trade Agreements (PTAs) with different countries.

He said ministry of commerce is undertaking various export promotional activities through trade exhibitions and visits of delegations in the new markets.

Alvi said KCCI is quite active in promoting and highlighting the economic and commercial activities of the enterprising business community of our vibrant city.

He said business community of Pakistan has shown great resilience despite domestic and international challenges which deserve huge commendation as it stood steadfast in challenging circumstances and played its role in the development of the country’s economy.

“The business community of Karachi is widely known for its entrepreneurship and has been playing key role in the promotion of exports, thus contributing immensely to the overall economic development of the country,” he added.

He said the PTI government has taken important measures to create enabling environment for the business and industrial community in order to make our products competitive in the international markets.

“Due to government’s business friendly policies, our business community has not only consolidated its position in existing markets but also capturing new ones”, he added.

Alvi said the government is committed to provide necessary facilities and incentives to the business community to further diversify and boost exports.

He said upcoming strategic trade policy framework will promote growth with equity, greater opportunities for gainful employment, contribution to sound macroeconomic framework, poverty eradication, environmental protection, investment in human resources, evaluation of private sector as engine of growth and focus on small sectors.

“The government is well aware of all your issues. It is on the right track and making all possible efforts to lead the country to the path of progress and development,” he reiterated.

Chairman Business Group, Siraj Kasim Teli, Governor Sindh Imran Ismail, President KCCI Junaid Esmail Makada and others also spoke.