Islamabad, December 11, 2023 – Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar, in a meeting with prominent industrialists and businessmen from Karachi on Monday, directed authorities to formulate a comprehensive action plan addressing the prevailing concerns over gas prices in the industrial sector.
The meeting, held in Islamabad, was a part of the Prime Minister’s ongoing consultations with key stakeholders in the business community, which were initially initiated during his visit to Karachi. The Prime Minister expressed the government’s commitment to fostering an environment conducive to industrial growth and economic prosperity.
Recognizing the pivotal role of industrialists and the business community in the nation’s progress, PM Kakar emphasized the government’s dedication to taking all necessary steps to promote industry and trade. During the meeting, he underscored the importance of competitive electricity rates for industries, aiming to provide relief to both businesses and consumers.
In line with these objectives, the Prime Minister directed the Minister of Finance and the Minister of Energy to collaborate with industrialists and prepare an action plan addressing concerns related to gas prices in the industrial sector. The move reflects the government’s focus on creating a business-friendly environment that encourages investment and economic expansion.
PM Kakar highlighted the government’s efforts to broaden the tax net, stating that the active involvement and support of the business community are crucial for the success of these initiatives. He called upon industrialists to collaborate with the government in expanding the tax base, which is essential for the sustainable development of the country.
Furthermore, the Prime Minister outlined the government’s commitment to institutional reforms aimed at ensuring the welfare of the people and the overall recovery of the economy. These reforms, he stated, are pivotal for creating a transparent and accountable system that benefits all segments of society.
The delegation of industrialists expressed satisfaction with the government’s measures to combat issues such as smuggling, electricity theft, and the broader economic restoration. The representatives included Chairman of the Businessmen Group Zubeir Motiwala, Chief Coordinator of the Industrial Forum Muhammad Javed Bilwani, Patron-in-Chief of Lasbela Chamber of Commerce and Industry Masood Ismail, Former Chairman of the All Pakistan Textile Processing Mills Association Saleem Parekh, Patron-in-Chief of the Association of Trade and Industry Ben Qasim, and President of North Karachi Association of Trade and Industry Faisal Moez.
The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both the government and the business community expressing their commitment to collaborative efforts that would drive economic growth, enhance industrial productivity, and ensure the well-being of the people. As the government prepares the action plan for industry gas prices, the stakeholders anticipate a more competitive and conducive environment for sustainable industrial development in the country.
