Karachi: Saquib Fayyaz Magoon, Senior Vice President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), has expressed criticism over Gerry's Dnata's decision to impose an ad-hoc handling charge on export cargo. The charge, set at Rs50 per kilogram excluding taxes, has been described as a potential threat to Pakistan's export competitiveness.
According to Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry, the new fee poses challenges to exporters already dealing with economic pressures like rising business costs and high international freight rates. Mr. Magoon emphasized that such fees could hinder the competitiveness of Pakistani goods in global markets.
Industry groups, including the Pakistan International Freight Forwarders Association and the Air Cargo Agents Association of Pakistan, have also raised concerns. Mr. Magoon highlighted the lack of alternative options for air cargo handling, as a significant portion is managed by Gerry's Dnata, forcing exporters to bear the additional cost.
The FPCCI has urged government intervention to address the charges, suggesting that the federal government, aviation ministry, and relevant authorities should work to ensure fair and transparent cargo handling costs. Mr. Magoon also called on the Federal Minister for Aviation and Defence, as well as the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority and the Competition Commission of Pakistan, to monitor and mitigate unnecessary financial burdens on exporters.
Reiterating the business community's support for export growth, Mr. Magoon stressed the need for stable logistics costs to maintain global competitiveness. He urged careful consideration of any additional charges to safeguard Pakistan's export sector.
The post FPCCI Criticizes Cargo Handling Fees Imposed by Gerry’s Dnata, Citing Export Concerns appeared first on Pakistan Business News.