Karachi: In a recent meeting with the Council of Economic and Energy Journalists, Karim Aziz Malik and Malik Sohail Hussain, leaders of the FPCCI Capital Office, pressed the government to swiftly address the challenges facing Pakistan’s exporters. They emphasized the urgent need for policy revisions, particularly concerning the new taxation measures and electricity tariffs, to prevent detrimental impacts on the nation’s export sector.

According to Council of Economic and Energy Journalists, The FPCCI officials voiced significant concerns over the government’s recent fiscal strategies, including the removal of exporters from the final tax regime proposed in the Finance Bill. Karim Aziz Malik highlighted that such changes could stifle manufacturing growth and potentially lead to increased corruption. He argued that broadening the tax base, rather than intensifying pressure on existing taxpayers, would be a more effective way to generate government revenue without harming the industry.

Malik Sohail Hussain advocated for the implementation of policies that would promote industrial development and boost exports. He criticized the new electricity tariffs set by Nepra, effective from July 1, which he claimed would escalate costs for industries that heavily depend on electricity as a primary resource. Both leaders called for the withdrawal of these fixed charges to alleviate the financial strain on exporters and mitigate further trade deficits.

The FPCCI has actively engaged with the government, providing recommendations through the Anomalies Committee to address issues in the export sector. Now, with the spotlight on the government’s next moves, Malik and Hussain hope that their concerns will be addressed promptly to safeguard and potentially enhance Pakistan’s export capabilities.