On August 12, 2024, a panel discussion on RFI Digital TV, hosted by Chairman RFI, Nusrat Mirza, brought together industrialists to discuss the challenges facing Pakistan’s industry in the context of 77 years of independence.
The panel included Syed Johar Ali Kandhari, President of Korangi Trade and Industry (KATI), Shamsuddin, a member of the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Global Consultant, and Chaudhry Wahid Uddin, a member of the Federation of Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
Syed Johar Ali Kandhari expressed serious concerns about the impact of high electricity prices on businesses in Pakistan. He highlighted that the exorbitant payments to power companies are even higher than the country’s military spending, urging the government to renegotiate these agreements to prevent further business closures and make electricity more affordable.
He also emphasized the challenges faced by young entrepreneurs and new technologies in the current tough economic environment, particularly in areas like Mehran Town and National Park.
Shamsuddin praised the Gujarat Fan Industry for its world-class reputation, noting that it produces high-quality fans in demand globally, which significantly contributes to the economy. He pointed out that Sialkot exports fans worth $900 million annually, showcasing this sector as a model of innovation and quality manufacturing.
Chaudhry Wahid Uddin further highlighted the global popularity and respect for Gujarat’s fan industry, which has a production capacity of 5 million fans, with 1.6 million fans being exported annually. He attributed this success to the industry’s high standards and creativity.
In conclusion, Nusrat Mirza summarized that industrialists are the backbone of Pakistan’s economy. Despite the challenges, resilience can help the industry overcome its difficulties. He cited Gujarat’s fan industry as an example of how Pakistani industries can achieve global success by learning from Gujarat’s achievements.
