RAWALPINDI: The Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) is urging the government to announce a special economic aid package keeping in view the threat of a coronavirus outbreak.

“We are looking forward for a significant fiscal stimulus package to help the stock market, rupee, wedding halls and pharmaceutical industry along with small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and sectors linked with tourism,” said RCCI President Saboor Malik in an executive committee meeting of the chamber.

Traders are ready to support the government in tackling this epidemic and have taken various measures on awareness of coronavirus under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), he said.

The chamber has organised a session for its members and staff to create awareness about the virus, he said, adding the chamber was using all platforms including social media to educate people about how they can keep themselves and others safe.

Free masks have been distributed to visitors and masses at the chamber’s premises, he said.

He asked State Bank Governor Raza Baqir to take immediate action in supporting financial markets.

He said that Federal Board of Revenue should revise its revenue targets because with low economic activity under the current situation, it is almost impossible to meet targets of the fiscal year.

Benefits of low oil prices in the global market must be passed on directly to the industry because it will help in controlling inflation, he said, adding power and gas prices should be reduced.

Published in Dawn, March 16th, 2020