Islamabad (TDI): A delegation of the Pakistan Carpet Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PCMEA) on Thursday called federal minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan.
During the meeting, the delegation led by Abdul Latif Malik (patron-in-chief) highlighted the difficulties faced by the industry and requested relief from customs tariffs that are adversely impacting their survival.
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Latif also explained the complex production process wherein raw materials are sent to Afghanistan, and unfinished carpets returned to Pakistan for final furnishing/processing before being exported globally.
“Even though 99 percent of these carpets are exported, they are unable to avail the benefit of custom duty exemptions from the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), leaving them without vital incentives for exports,” he said.
Latif highlighted due to higher customs duties at the Afghan-Torkham border, many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are on the verge of being shut down.
“For the survival of this sector and its growth, it is necessary to make semi-finished carpets duty-free,” Abdul Latif Malik urged, adding that government support is crucial for the sustainability of the industry.
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Minister Jam Kamal Khan assured the Pakistan Carpet Manufacturers and Exporters Association PCMEA of his full support, recognizing the sector’s potential as an export enhancer.
He said we should promote “Made in Pakistan” products and address intellectual property issues, such as patent protections for Pakistani carpets, to improve global recognition.
He also proposed a meeting with FBR and other stakeholders to resolve the tariff issue for the carpet manufacturing sector.
He said the government was fully committed to fostering growth in the carpet manufacturing industry and helping SMEs flourish.
