QUETTA: Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan has said that promoting industrial and trade sectors and boosting economic activities in Balochistan were among the top priorities of the federal government and all possible measures will be taken in this regard.

The federal minister expressed these views during a video-link meeting with officials and members of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Quetta.

During the meeting, the chamber president, Mohammad Ayub Mariani, and Senior Vice President Haji Akhtar Kakar highlighted challenges and problems being faced by the business community in Balochistan.

The Chamber leaders thanked the federal commerce minister for exempting Balochistan’s exporters and importers from the State Bank of Pakistan’s circular for trade with neighbouring countries.

They requested a permanent solution to this issue and urged reactivation of the Badini Business Gate, provision of 25 to 30 per cent tax valuation discount on 32 items imported via land routes, resolution of the issue of disputed land for Special Economic Zones, construction of an Expo Centre at a suitable location, addressing issues of halting cargo vehicles and opening business gates at the district level from Zhob to Taftan along the Afghanistan border.

They also proposed establishing border markets and other related measures.

Responding to these demands, Mr Kamal said the federal government will address all issues related to trade and commerce falling under the jurisdiction of the federal government, but matters pertaining to the provincial government will be discussed with the provincial government.

Published in Dawn, December 4th, 2024