Seeking FCCI’s input for a revamped industrial policy
Published on: January 8, 2024.
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National Productivity Organisation CEO Invites Recommendations for New Industrial Policy
Toba Tek Singh: Muhammad Alamgir Chaudhry, CEO of the National Productivity Organisation (NPO), has extended an invitation to the Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FCCI) to present their viable recommendations for a new industrial policy. During a meeting with businessmen at the FCCI, Chaudhry emphasized the importance of value addition in agricultural products and highlighted the success of Thailand in dehydrating fruits and vegetables. Chaudhry mentioned that Thailand even imports frozen strawberries to use in their chips, which are then exported. He stressed the need for workshops to raise awareness among local farmers and reduce post-harvest losses through value addition and the development of the processing industry.
Chaudhry provided examples of how value addition can significantly increase the value of produce, such as increasing the value of tomatoes from Rs10 per kg to Rs250 through value addition. He also mentioned the success of the Agha Khan Foundation’s skill training in Hunza, which enabled the local farmers to export dehydrated apricots at a significantly higher price of Rs2,000 per kg. Chaudhry also highlighted the potential of Pakistani mangoes for value-added products like mango pulp, which has a global demand of 200,000 tonnes per annum.
FCCI Acting President Dr Sajjad Arshad emphasized the need for value addition in agricultural products, noting that increased production without value addition can negatively impact growers. He mentioned the decline in textile exports and foreign remittances, emphasizing the importance of adopting new technologies and consistent government policies.
Dr Arshad also underscored the potential of the rice industry, stating that Pakistan’s rice exports worth $2.5bn can be increased to $5bn by 2025 and $10bn by 2030. He also encouraged the promotion of the dairy sector for value addition and progress.
Conclusion
The meeting between the NPO CEO and the FCCI highlighted the importance of value addition in agricultural products to increase their market value. The success of Thailand and the Agha Khan Foundation in dehydrating fruits and vegetables serves as a model for Pakistan to reduce post-harvest losses and enhance export potential. The FCCI expressed the need for consistent government policies and the adoption of new technologies to boost various industries, including textiles, rice, and dairy. With the right strategies in place, Pakistan can significantly increase its exports and contribute to economic growth.
