PESHAWAR: Traders in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s tea sector have expressed concerns over the imposition of a minimum retail price (MRP) on legally imported black tea, calling for policy reforms and financial incentives to support the industry.
The issues were discussed during a meeting of tea traders and importers at the Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), chaired by President Junaid Altaf, and attended by FPCCI Vice President Aman Paracha.
Traders highlighted challenges including frequent border closures, policy and administrative gaps, distance from seaports, rising costs amid security threats, natural calamities, and trade restrictions.
Altaf emphasized the need for diversification, modernisation, quality improvement, and proper branding and packaging to strengthen the sector, which contributes significantly to economic growth, business, and employment.
Paracha acknowledged that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has faced major setbacks due to terrorism, floods, and other factors, slowing business, trade, and exports. He called for a special financial relief package and incentives to revive industry and commerce in the region.
On the issue of the MRP, Paracha said it has adversely affected traders, particularly because the price floor cannot apply to bulk tea imports. He added that the matter has been raised with the relevant authorities and efforts are underway to review or remove the MRP.
