SIALKOT: National Assembly’s Standing Committee on Finance, Revenue and Economic Affairs on Thursday urged the government to support the leather industry as well as boost efforts for diversification and value-addition to curtail export losses.

The committee meeting, held at the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry, was chaired by Committee Chairman Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh and MNA Mian Abdul Manan.

On the occasion, exporters said leather exports have declined 25 per cent. This should be an eye-opener for the government, Sialkot-based leather exporters added.

The exporters said lack of proper official patronage and incentives was hurting industry, particularly the leather sector.

The NA body chairman noted that Sialkot-based exporters were strengthening the national economy by earning foreign exchange to the tune of $2 billion annually. He assured exporters of early release of pending duty draw back and refund claims.

Addressing the meeting, PTI parliamentarian Asad Umar stressed on the need for removing hurdles faced by businesses and focus on strengthening the national economy.

Mr Umar alleged that the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has become the most corrupt institution of the country, with senior and junior officials directly and indirectly involved in tax evasion.

MNA Dr Nafisa Shah said the time has come for everyone to think seriously for the national economical development and stability by taking all the stake holders, in this regard.

Published in Dawn, September 29th, 2017