February 13, 2007	Tuesday	Muharram 24, 1428

KARACHI, Feb 12: President Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) Majyd Aziz has criticised the decision of the commerce ministry to transfer the issuance of certificates of origin from the chamber to the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP).

In a press release, he stated that foreign businessmen were comfortable and accepted the certificate given by the private sector rather than a government organisation.

The KCCI chief added that the TDAP should focus on exports, development of new markets ensuring enhanced market access. He said that the chambers were performing the task of issuing certificates of origin in a transparent and effective manner and their certificates enjoyed credibility.

Majyd further said that it was not prudent to “nationalise” the facility being provided by the private sector organisations as it was counter-productive and susceptible to misuse of powers by petty officials. Therefore, it is imperative that the government revise its order and allows the chambers to continue to provide this facility to their members.—APP