The Exporters Association has demanded the implementation of a consistent 10-year federal policy for exports, saying frequent policy changes and high production costs are undermining the competitiveness of Pakistani exporters, it was reported on Friday.
Chief Coordinator Jawed Bilwani said promoting exports was the responsibility of the federal government, not the exporters, stressing that exports should be treated as a national asset rather than a burden.
Jawed Bilwani said the main challenge facing Pakistan’s export sector was a lack of competitiveness and high production costs, rather than the quality of Pakistani products.
He said expensive electricity and gas, heavy taxation, and delays in tax refunds were creating serious difficulties for export industries. Sales tax refunds, he added, were often delayed for months and, in some cases, even years.
The chief coordinator said Pakistani exporters faced higher production costs compared to regional competitors, making it difficult for them to compete in international markets.
He called for competitive energy rates, tax reforms and timely refunds to support the export sector. He also stressed the need for consistent government policies, affordable financing and uninterrupted access to raw materials.
Jawed Bilwani further proposed establishing an emergency cell at the Prime Minister’s Office to immediately address hurdles related to export logistics.
He said exporters had also suffered heavy financial losses due to strikes, calling for measures to ensure smooth and uninterrupted business and export operations.
