April 3, 2003	Thursday	Muharram 30, 1424

KARACHI, April 2: The Federal Minister for Industries and Production, Liaquat Ali Jatoi, has assured full support by his ministry for the promotion and development of automotive industry and import of used cars or used spare parts shall not be allowed.

He gave the assurance while talking to a delegation of Pakistan Association of Automotive Parts and Accessories Manufacturers (PAAPAM), led by its president Muhammad Ashraf Shah, which met him at his office here on Wednesday.

The minister said the policies of the government were focussed on strengthening the manufacturing base for accelerated industrial progress and creation of more job opportunities.

He said that steps were being taken to curb under-invoicing, smuggling and dumping to protect industries.

The minister said that with fast growth of automotive industry, Pakistan was now in a position to export spare parts and his ministry would provide all possible help to boost its export.

Earlier, PAAPAM president briefed the minister about contribution of automotive industry and the problems being faced by it.—APP