Iftikhar Malik calls for tariff reforms to boost exports

LAHORE, Sep 13 (APP):Former SAARC Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Iftikhar Ali Malik on Sunday called for coherent tariff reforms, wider market access and export-oriented policies to boost exports and ensure sustainable economic growth.

In a statement, he urged the government to simplify customs procedures,accelerate digitalization,improve logistics and reduce compliance costs to facilitate exporters. He said unnecessary regulatory and additional customs duties should be gradually withdrawn to lower the cost of industrial inputs and improve the competitiveness of Pakistani products in international markets.

Iftikhar Malik said high tariff barriers and limited access to Free Trade Agreements had constrained Pakistan’s export potential, with exports remaining below 10 per cent of GDP.

He said higher exports would strengthen foreign exchange reserves,create employment,support industrial expansion and reduce pressure on the balance of payments.