LAHORE (special crosspondent) – A delegation from the School Bags Manufacturers Association visited the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) to meet with its President, Faheem Ur Rehman Saigol, to discuss urgent industry challenges. The meeting was attended by key industry representatives, including Convener Muhammad Yousaf, Khalid Pervez, Muhammad Jameel, Imran Khalid, Sajid Naseem, Chaudhry Umar, Syed Zeeshan, Abdullah, and Shahbaz Hameed.

Challenges Facing the School Bag Industry

During the discussions, the delegation highlighted that school bags are an essential component of the national education system. They noted that the industry is primarily composed of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) distributed across the country, providing livelihoods for millions of families. The delegation reported that the escalating costs of raw materials and essential production inputs have placed the sector under severe financial pressure. They warned that without immediate policy intervention, the long-term survival and growth of the local industry remain at risk.

Proposed Government Interventions

The representatives urged the government to significantly reduce or eliminate import duties on raw materials and essential manufacturing components. Furthermore, they called for the introduction of targeted incentives and subsidies to help local manufacturers mitigate current operational challenges. According to the delegation, such government support would not only stabilize the domestic industry but also open significant opportunities to expand school bag exports globally.

LCCI Advocacy for SMEs

Speaking at the meeting, LCCI President Faheem Ur Rehman Saigol reiterated that the Chamber consistently advocates for maximum support for SMEs, which serve as the backbone of the national economy. He emphasized that sustainable economic growth is unattainable without the robust development of these enterprises. Reflecting on broader Pakistan Accelerates Digital Reforms to Boost Connectivity and Economic Growth, Saigol highlighted that the government must modernize the industrial landscape to remain competitive.

Commitment to Industry Protection

Faheem Ur Rehman Saigol assured the delegation that the Lahore Chamber would effectively advocate for the industry’s legitimate concerns and demands with the relevant government authorities. He stated that the Chamber is committed to fostering industrial stability and reducing the cost of doing business, which is essential to boosting industrial activity. He noted that inflation, rising energy prices, and the surging cost of raw materials have created a difficult environment for smaller manufacturers. Referencing the importance of cross-sectoral support, he stressed that helping industries linked to the education sector is vital, much like the Ahsan Iqbal Urges Districts to Establish Green Channels for Climate initiatives, which promote necessary infrastructure improvements. He concluded by asserting that government policy must focus on reducing business costs, incentivizing investment, and creating sustainable employment opportunities, ultimately benefiting both the economy and the education sector. These efforts align with the broader vision discussed during recent high-level meetings, such as the US Congressional Delegation Discusses Strengthening Bilateral Cooperation With Ishaq Dar to enhance national economic prospects.