KARACHI: The government is considering bringing utility tariffs for the export-oriented industry on a par with those of regional players to restore the country’s competitive edge in international trade.

Ministry of Textile Industry Secretary Hassan Iqbal told exporters at the Pakistan Hosiery Manufacturers Association on Thursday he has already approached other stakeholders, including the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Resources and Ministry of Water and Power, in this regard.

The secretary said the high cost of input is the biggest issue confronting the export-oriented industry. “This should be brought down to provide the export sector with a level playing field,” he said.

He said once the ministries concerned rationalise utility tariffs, they will be presented to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif for approval.

Responding to a question by Pakistan Apparel Forum Chairman Jawed Bilwani, the secretary said the issue of the combined effluent plant falls in the domain of the Ministry of Environment. However, his ministry has been in constant contact with the Sindh government over this issue, he said.

He said all stakeholders were on board when the premier’s incentives package for exporters was announced. But their objection to the condition of a 10 per cent incremental increase in exports in 2017-18 for getting the duty drawback seems to be valid, he added. Mr Iqbal assured exporters that the prime minister will be requested to review this condition.

Published in Dawn, July 28th, 2017