QUETTA: Federal Commerce Secretary Jawad Paul pledged to address the challenges faced by traders in Balochistan and nationwide, aiming to boost Pakistan’s exports to Rs. 60 billion under Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif’s vision.
The commitment came during a landmark virtual consultation session with the Quetta Balochistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (QBCCI). The forum highlighted Balochistan’s untapped potential in minerals, fruits, vegetables, olive oil, and meat, stressing the urgent need for value addition and modernization of production sectors.
QBCCI office-bearers, including President Haji Muhammad Ayub Mariani, pinpointed critical infrastructure bottlenecks. They reported that exports of kinnow and potatoes to Central Asia are severely hampered by congestion and limited operating hours at the Iran border. They urged the government to permit the movement of more goods, including LPG and potatoes, through the Razarche Taftan gate and to expand it into a four-way crossing to expedite the daily passage of hundreds of export trucks. Additional demands included establishing a fumigation office in Taftan to ease documentation and resolving obstacles in barter trade.
Federal Secretary Paul assured the chamber that their practical suggestions would be conveyed directly to the Prime Minister, emphasizing that Balochistan’s potential is central to national export goals. Secretary Food Security Aamir Mahmood and Additional Secretary Production Asif Saeed also promised full facilitation.
Officials announced an upcoming exhibition of 200 Chinese companies in Paktaisn on January 19, seeking joint ventures, and urged local businesses to register by January 4 to capitalize on the opportunity.
