FPCCI – Page 52 – PPI News Agency

Free Trade Agreement between Pakistan and Turkey is move on

Karachi, March 14, 2018 (PPI-OT): Pakistan and Turkey are time tested friends and their economic ties are based on longstanding and deep rooted bilateral relationship providing economic and political support to each other. There are tremendous opportunities and trade potential between both the countries which can be exploited by the help of Free Trade Agreement (FTA). This was stated by Syed Mazhar Ali Nasir, Senior Vice President of FPCCI in a meeting with the Consul General of Turkey visited FPCCI to discuss the trade related matters. The meeting was also attended by Abdul Waheed, Tariq Haleem Vice Presidents of FPCCI, Zahid Umer and Secretary General of FPCCI Dr. Iqbal Thaheem.

Mazhar Nasir said that unfortunately, the volume of bilateral trade between both the countries has decreased to US $ 675 million in 2017 from more than a billion in 2011. He informed that the in 2011 the export of Pakistan in Turkey was US $ 873 million that has been reduced to US$ 323 million in 2017 whereas the export of Turkey into Pakistan were US$ 214 million in 2011 which has been increased to US$ 352 million in 2017. He said that the Turkish authorities increased duties on Pakistani exports from 6% to 24% which is a great barrier and caused a drastic reduction in the export of Pakistan in Turkey.

He further expressed his serious concern over discriminatory approach on Pakistani exports for ceasing the benefits of GSP Plus by Turkish Authorities which has been granted by them to various countries except Pakistan.He further said that Pakistan and Turkey are also active members of ECO wherein both are agreed on implementation of ECOTA in ECO region which also allows various concessions in duties for enhancement of trade. He suggested that Islamabad-Tehran-Istanbul (ITI) cargo train be made financially viable for the promotion of trade. He also suggested early implementation of ECO Visa Sticker Scheme to facilitate the businessmen of all ECO nations to enhance business relations and people to people contact.

The Senior Vice President FPCCI further proposed to immediately call a Joint Business Council (JBC) meeting between the national Chamber of Commerce of both the countries to discuss the impediments and bottlenecks of FTA and find solutions to remove all non-tariff barriers both side and reduce tariff to the rational level in the best interest of both nation and uplifting the bilateral trade volume to its existing potential.

He further added that despite of the fact that lots of work has been done on finalization of FTA but still both the countries have room for joint development and technology sharing. He further said that if Turkish government reduced the tariff the import of Pakistan will be increased in Turkey and it will also lead to establish lots of joint venture in different sectors and transfer of Turkish technology into Pakistan. The Turkish investors would also be able to re-export their products to Turkey from Pakistan.

The Turkish Consul General appreciated the suggestions of FPCCI and said that FTA between Pakistan and Turkey will further enhance and strengthen the bilateral trade relations between both countries. He said that the existing trade volume which is undoubtedly far below the existing potential between both the countries will be increased through joint efforts and close contacts between the businessmen of the two countries. He said that bilateral trade will jump once FTA is finalized. He said that Pakistan especially is an investment hub for the Turkish investors and there are ample opportunities of joint ventures.

For more information, contact:
Secretary General
Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI)
B-1, Federation House, Main Clifton Road,
Shahra-e-Firdousi,
Karachi-75600, Pakistan
Tel: +92-21-35873691, 93-94
Fax: +92-21-35874332
Email: info@fpcci.com.pk
URL: www.fpcci.com.pk

On behalf of FPCCI Tariq Haleem signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Zhang Baozhong, Chairman CEO

Karachi, March 13, 2018 (PPI-OT): Tariq Haleem, Vice President FPCCI attended the inaugural ceremony of the liner service to Gwadar Port by vessel MS Tiger. He was speaking as the occasion he said that it was indeed a very historic occasion and a success story under the auspices of China Overseas Ports Holding Company (COPHC). The very basic infrastructure has been put in place, thus paving the way for upcoming projects and also enhancing the facilities to be put on fast track.

Tariq Haleem said that FPCCI with COPHC has been working for some time to ensure commencement of regular cargo shipments at Gwadar Port to send a message to the world community that Gwadar Port is now operational. He also mentioned that Gwadar port is seen as a “FUTURE JEWEL” in the Pakistan China CPEC flagship of China’s “One Belt One Road” which is initiative to build a new silk road of land and maritime trade routes across Asia and beyond. Gwadar port will Inshallah very soon be a major transhipment hub and a mega port.

It has been mutually agreed that FPCCI and Provincial Government of Baluchistan will sign a MoU for cooperation for attracting investments and FPCCI will also advise on the master plan for Gwadar. He said presently Pakistan is exporting wheat in bulk and more than 1 million tons will be exported from Punjab. Therefore congestion at both Karachi Port and Port Qasim is expected. We at FPCCI feel that this is an opportune time to divert some ships to Gwadar for loading of Wheat export cargoes.

Tariq Haleem further said that If we work intelligently / plan properly, we can coordinate the import of rock phosphate, seeds and scrap in ship loads to Gwadar. These import cargoes are also destined for Punjab. Therefore transport can move both ways i.e. with export wheat cargo from Punjab to Gwadar and import cargo of rock phosphate, seeds and scrap etc. to Punjab which will hopefully result in bringing down the extra transport costs.

Tariq Haleem took this opportunity to thank the chief minister of Balochistan Mir Abdul Quddus Bizenjo for his kind gesture of acceding to FPCCI request for the promotion of Gwadar port. The Chief Minister has very kindly agreed to grant subsidy for extra transport cost and to provide free of cost office space to FPCCI at Gwadar. FPCCI has gladly accepted this offer and will establish its office at Gwadar to promote and utilize the facilities for the mutual benefits / objectives of the business community and COPHC.

Tariq Haleem expressed his expectation that COPHC will capitalize on this unprecedented initiative by the Chief Minister of Balochistan Mir Abdul Quddus Bizenjo. Tariq Haleem said that the efforts put in to organize Gwadar Expo 2018 during January was a great success in projecting the benefits to be achieved for the investors at Gwadar. He also said that FPCCI members are keen to invest and setup projects at Gwadar. On behalf of FPCCI Tariq Haleem signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Zhang Baozhong, Chairman CEO COPHC.

Liner service to Gwadar Port inaugurated

Karachi, March 12, 2018 (PPI-OT): Tariq Haleem, Vice President FPCCI while addressing the audience at the inaugural ceremony of the liner service to Gwadar Port by vessel MS Tiger on 7th March, 2018 said that it was indeed a very historic occasion. He further said that today is a success story under the auspices of China Overseas Ports Holding Company (COPHC). The very basic infrastructure has been put in place, thus paving the way for upcoming projects and also enhancing the facilities to be put on fast track.

It has been mutually agreed that FPCCI and Provincial Government of Baluchistan will sign a MoU for cooperation for attracting investments and FPCCI will also advise on the master plan for Gwadar. Tariq Haleem also mentioned that COPHC has assured that they will be providing special rates / benefits and services not only for all cargoes but also special concessions for Afghan Transit cargoes.

The first priority is now to immediately attract Afghan Transit cargoes at Gwadar Port and also to promote transit of Fertilizer cargoes for Afghanistan via Gwadar Port. By getting concessions / benefits for Afghan Transit cargoes from COPHC, FPCCI / COPHC will also be acting as a bridge for better relations between Pakistan and Afghanistan.

Tariq Haleem congratulated the Chief Minister of Balochistan, Mir Abdul Quddus Bizenjo who has made a very wise decision by appointing Hussain Islam as advisor on GDA and BCDA with the status of provincial minister. He said Hussain Islam belongs to the shipping sector and I am also from the shipping sector. I am confident that he will put in all his efforts to ensure exemplary development of Gwadar port as a progressive modern port and an industrial complex.

He said presently Pakistan is exporting wheat in bulk and more than 1 million tons will be exported from Punjab. Therefore congestion at both Karachi Port and Port Qasim is expected. We at FPCCI feel that this is an opportune time to divert some ships to Gwadar for loading of Wheat export cargoes.

Tariq Haleem also discussed this matter with Hussain Islam (the Advisor to the Chief Minister) and he in turn discussed with the Chief Minister Balochistan Mir Abdul Quddus Bizenjo to consider a subsidy for the extra transport costs. A confirmation was received that the Chief Minister has agreed to above suggestion.

Tariq Haleem further said that if we work intelligently / plan properly, we can coordinate the import of rock phosphate, seeds and scrap in ship loads to Gwadar. These import cargoes are also destined for Punjab. Therefore transport can move both ways i.e. with export wheat cargo from Punjab to Gwadar and import cargo of rock phosphate, seeds and scrap etc. to Punjab which will hopefully result in bringing down the extra transport costs.

Furthermore Tariq Haleem said that two major cement manufacturers namely DG Khan Cement and Attock Cement who are located at hub district of Balochistan have already expanded their production capacities by a total of about 3.75 million tons and It would be convenient and economical for these cement industries to export cement and clinker in bulk and bag condition from Gwadar Port. Consequently this would also generate two way transport movement from and to Gwadar which would help in reducing the cost of transportation.

Tariq Haleem expressed his expectation that COPHC will capitalize on this unprecedented initiative by the Chief Minister of Balochistan Mir Abdul Quddus Bizenjo. Tariq Haleem also mentioned that Gwadar has great potential for the development of Tourism because of its azure water and attractive white sandy beaches, temperate climate and friendly people.

During winter cruise ships from Europe move towards the gulf region mostly to UAE ports on a seven day cruise, Hence Gwadar should be developed to provide an alternate destination which would boost the tourism industry. FPCCI in cooperation with COPHC is already making efforts to attract cruise ships / tourists to Gwadar.

Tariq Haleem said that the efforts put in to organize Gwadar Expo 2018 during January was a great success in projecting the benefits to be achieved for the investors at Gwadar. He also said that FPCCI members are keen to invest and setup projects at Gwadar. COPHC has also assured FPCCI of their continued support for the LOCALS of Gwadar.

Tariq Haleem also took this opportunity to also request the customs authorities to expedite required permission / infrastructure for commencement of WeBOC i.e. I.T. related issues at Gwadar Port. On behalf of FPCCI Tariq Haleem signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Zhang Baozhong, Chairman CEO COPHC on 7th March, 2018.

Early Implementation of ECOTA, emphasized by ECO Member Countries in their Statutory Meetings of ECO-CCI

Karachi, March 09, 2018 (PPI-OT): The 16th General Assembly, 24th Executive Committee and Specialized Committees Meetings of ECO Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ECO-CCI) were successfully held in Tehran, Iran which first time in history were attended by all 10 members countries. The Meetings were hosted by Iran Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture (ICCIMA) while the inauguration of Executive Committee and General Assembly Meetings were graced by Minister of Roads and Urban Development of the Islamic Republic of Iran Dr. Mahmoud Abbas Al Khoundy as Chief Guest.

The meetings were also attended by Ambassador Halil Ibrahim Acka, Secretary General ECO, the President of ICCIMA Mr. Gholem Hossein Shefei, Vice President TOBB Selcuk Ozturk, Mr. Masoud Rekabdar, Vice President ECO Trade and development Bank, Foreign Missions of ECO Countries in Tehran, Iran and Representative of Concerned Ministries of Iran. The Pakistani delegation was led by Mr. Ghazanfar Bilour, President of ECO-CCI and FPCCI.

In his address, Mr. Ghazanfar Bilour President ECO-CCI emphasized on the sustainable development, cooperation and promotion of mutual trade and investment among ECO countries. He also highlighted the intra-ECO trade statistics which indicates the minuscule share of ECO trade i.e. 7 to 8 percent in total trade of ECO region as trade is the most important determinant of economic growth and development and significantly contributes in regional integration.

He urged all the member states particularly Pakistan, Turkey, Iran, Afghanistan and Kazakhstan for taking significant and effective measures for the enhancement of intra-regional trade as these nations contributes 94 percent in trade of ECO region. He stressed the member nations for early implementation of ECOTA (a preferential trade agreement), Agreement on Protection and Promotion of Investment (APPI), ITI and KTAI train, Iran Pakistan Gas pipeline, Visa sticker scheme etc. Economic relations in the ECO region should be strengthened through isolation of the root causes of lower intra-regional trade and investment, removal of trade barriers, harmonization in trade and investment regulations, and gradual integration of the member states, he added.

During the inauguration session, Dr. Mahmoud Abbas Al Khoundy Minister of Roads and Urban Development of Iran emphasized on the requirement of civilization of dialogue within the ECO quoting the experience of the other blocs such as the EU which will lead to thriving economic boost in the region. He proposed establishing a common currency, intra-regional marriages, collaboration in hardware and software industries and Automobile industry.

Moreover, the Secretary General ECO Ambassador Halil Ibrahim Acka, the President of ICCIMA Mr. Gholem Hossein Shefei and Vice President TOBB Selcuk Ozturkalso appreciated the efforts of President ECO-CCI and ECO-CCI Secretariat for making ECO-CCI active, significant and vibrant organ contributing to enhancement of intra-ECO trade, investment and economic relations.

Prior to the Executive Committee and General Assembly Meetings, the Specialized Committee Meetings of Trade Facilitation, Industry, Investment and SMEs Promotion, Arbitration, Tourism, Transportation, Women Entrepreneur Council and Business Rating Program were held wherein the issues related to establishment and finalization of rules and regulation of ECO Arbitration center, ECO investment conference, problems relating to SMEs sector, establishment of ECO Investment Web portal, promotion of halal industry, ECO tourism strategy, simplification and harmonization of visa procedure, financial rules and regulation, implementation of ECO Trade facilitation agreement, holding of ECO Business Forum, ECO-ASEAN and ECO SAARC Business Forum, ECO Trade Fair, early operation of ITI and KTAI trains,implementation of ECO Transit Trade Agreement etc. were discussed.

ECO Trade and Development Bank also informed the house about its latest operations and its future plans with respect to providing financial facilities to private sector of ECO Countries. The house emphasized on the early implementation of ECOTA which is not yet ratified by Tajikistan and Iran hasn’t finalized its concessionary, positive and negative list of commodities.

The house appreciated ECO-CCI (Pakistan Chapter i.e. FPCCI) for their outstanding work and efforts during their three years tenure and successful holding of its statutory meetings regularly. The house also approved the FPCCI proposed logo of ECO-CCI and approved the amendment suggested in the Statute of ECO-CCI.

The Presidency of ECO-CCI was handed over to Afghanistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Vice President-ship to Iran Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture under Article 1 and 2.1 of Statute of ECO-CCI. While the Secretariat of ECO-CCI will continue rotating amongst the founding members (Turkey, Iran and Pakistan) three years each; initially by Turkey (TOBB), followed by Iran (ICCIMA) and Pakistan (FPCCI).

FPCCI delegation visits Iran

Karachi, March 06, 2018 (PPI-OT): A delegation from FPCCI under the leadership of Mr. Ghazanfar Bilour (President FPCCI and ECO-CCI) is currently in Tehran, Iran to attend the 16th General Assembly Meeting, 24th Executive Committee Meeting, and Specialized Committee Meetings from 3-5 March 2018 organized by Economic Cooperation Organization Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ECO-CCI).

Members of FPCCI actively participated in the Specialized Committee Meetings on various sectors including Transportation, Tourism, Arbitration, Trade Facilitation, Industry and Investment and Women Entrepreneur Council. The event will conclude with the 24th Executive Committee Meeting. Agenda includes the activity report of ECO-CCI during the last year as well as handing over of ECO-CCI Presidency to Afghanistan from Pakistan along with the decision of establishment of permanent secretariat of ECO-CCI.

Waheed appointed FPCCI body chief

Karachi, March 03, 2018 (PPI-OT): Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry President Ghazanfar Bilour has appointed Dr Shaikh Kaiser Waheed as chairman of the FPCCI standing committee on the pharmaceutical industry for 2018. His nomination is reflective of the confidence reposed in him by the President FPCCI, in view of his contribution in the pharma sector during past years, as industrialist and business leader.

Dr. Kaiser Waheed previously served as chairman of Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (PPMA). He elected as president of SITE Superhighway Association of Industry. Waheed, President and Chief Executive Medisure Pharma Karachi and Chairman of National Forum for Environment and Health, is actively involved in pharma and social welfare activities.

Need stressed to remove hurdles in gems-jewellery export

Karachi, February 26, 2018 (PPI-OT): The 2nd Gem Bazar successfully concluded at Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry’s (FPCCI) head office in Karachi. It was jointly organized by FPCCI and All Pakistan Gem Merchants and Jewellers Association (APGMJA). The bazar was attended by a large number of visitors and diplomats of various countries.

During the exhibition, a conference on “Potential of Gems and Jewellery Sector in Pakistan” was also organized for the purpose to take on board the authorities concerned and stakeholders about the potential of exports and problems being faced by the Gems exporters and to remove obstacles.

The conference was headed by FPCCI Vice President Waheed Ahmed who urged the government to remove obstacles levied through SRO-760 in 2013, so that the export of this sector could be enhanced. He also stressed the need for branding and marketing, and adoption of new technologies to compete in the International market and to enhance the gems and jewellery exports. During the conference, SM Matiullah from APGMJA and Ahmed Zaman from FPCCI gave detailed presentations.