SCCI demands reopening Torkham border for movement of goods trucks

F.P. Report

PESHAWAR: President of the Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Engr Maqsood Anwar Pervaiz has welcomed reopening of Chaman-Spinboldak border, demanded of the cross-border movement of goods trucks at Torkham border.

Maqsood Pervaiz while speaking to a delegation of traders during a meeting here at the chamber house termed the reopening of Pakistan-Afghanistan border at Chaman is a right step of the government under the prevailing circumstances, which will not only give further boost bilateral trade and economic activities at the border region but it will also avoid further financial losses to business community.

Therefore, SCCI chief called upon the government to allow trucks to cross trucks loaded with perishable and other goods items, stranded at Torkham for many days due to closure of the border,

While expressing concern over meager cut in policy rate announced by State Bank of Pakistan, Maqsood Pervaiz witnessed the business and trade activities have adversely affected after outbreak of coronavirus pandemic, importantly unfavorable economic conditions for past many years in the country.

Therefore, he urged the government to immediately reduce policy interest rate to single digit level in order to save businesses from the negative impact of coronavirus.

Commenting about gradual increase in electricity and gas tariffs by the government, SCCI chief said the electricity and gas main source to keep running wheel of manufacturing units, what he termed the constant hike in power and gas rates a major hurdle in industrial growth in the country. So, he asked the government to reduce rates of electricity and gas to give boost to industrialisation and to generate more employment opportunities.

The chamber president also urged the State Bank of Pakistan to re-scheduled disbursement of loans, which were given to business institutions in wake of coronavirus outbreak in the country.