Ismail Suttar, Chairman of the Salt Manufacturers Association of Pakistan (SMAP), has voiced strong criticism against the government’s decision to grant five days of Eid holidays, highlighting the adverse impact on the nation’s fragile economy.
In a statement on Tuesday, Chairman Salt Manufacturers Suttar urged the government to reconsider its decision, arguing that the extended holidays are impractical given the current economic conditions. “Associating too many holidays with the occasion makes no sense, especially in the midst of an economic crisis,” he stated.
Chairman Salt Manufacturers Suttar expressed deep concern about the potential business losses the private sector will incur due to the notification, and criticized the government for not consulting industrialists before making such a significant decision.
Chairman Salt Manufacturers acknowledged the cultural and religious importance of Eid as a time of celebration and togetherness. However, he emphasized that the private sector, which is already struggling under the weight of economic pressures, cannot afford to halt financial transactions for an extended period. “Routine tasks are already slowed down during the holy month of Ramadan, putting trading transactions on hold and creating delays in payments, which affect daily wagers,” he noted.
The statement of the chairman salt manufacturers underscored the critical role the private sector plays in sustaining Pakistan’s economy. He argued that any further disruptions, particularly during a time of economic crisis, could exacerbate the financial strain on businesses. “If the decision cannot be reversed, it should not be applicable to the private sector, which is the backbone of the country’s economy,” he suggested.
Chairman Salt Manufacturers Suttar urged the government to amend the decision promptly to mitigate further damage to the economy. He stressed that the private sector needs to maintain operational continuity to prevent further setbacks. “The government must make amendments to this decision at the earliest to avoid further damage to the economy of Pakistan,” he added.
The criticism comes at a time when Pakistan is grappling with multiple economic challenges, including high inflation, a depreciating currency, and slow economic growth. The private sector, which drives a significant portion of the country’s economic activity, is particularly vulnerable to policy decisions that disrupt business operations.
Ismail Suttar’s statement highlights the broader issues facing the private sector in Pakistan and underscores the need for the government to consider the economic implications of its decisions. As the country navigates through these challenging times, it is crucial for policymakers to engage with industry leaders and stakeholders to ensure that their actions support, rather than hinder, economic recovery.
In conclusion, while the extended Eid holidays may bring joy to many, they also pose significant challenges to the already struggling private sector. The government’s responsiveness to these concerns will be vital in determining the resilience of Pakistan’s economy in the face of ongoing challenges.
