ISLAMABAD: Finance Minister Ishaq Dar on Friday said that export-led growth is a major government priority and every possible measure to enhance the capacity of exporters including encouraging import of modern machinery to increase exports is being undertaken.
He made these remarks in a meeting with delegation comprising industrial exporters including representatives of APTMA, leather and rice association. The businessmen appreciated the incentives offered by the government to spur the growth in export sectors.
The finance minister encouraged the business community to fully utilise the broad incentives given by the government in the recent budget and the strategic trade policy and work for value addition. The minister said that exporters should gauge world trends and become competitive accordingly.
The delegation gave their suggestions to increase exports and requested the government’s support. The finance minister said that further discussions on this will continue in an effort to formulate recommendations at the earliest for consideration of the Prime Minister.
The meeting was attended by Chairman BOI, SA to PM on Revenue, Finance Secretary, Secretary Commerce, Secretary National Food Security, SA to Finance Minister and officials of the Finance Ministry and FBR.
Meanwhile, a delegation from Foton Group, China also called on the finance minister. Chairman Board of Investment and SA to PM on Revenue also attended the meeting. The Foton Group appreciated the pro-investment policies of the government and showed keen interest in investing in manufacturing a range of automobiles in Pakistan.
The finance minister welcomed the delegation and appreciated their plans for investment in Pakistan. He said that the government has earlier this year announced the new Auto policy for the next five years and encouraged the Chinese company to make use of the opportunities for investment offered under this policy, in consultation with the Chairman / MoS BOI.
