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EPB assures improved support system for exporters

RECORDER REPORT

KARACHI: Export Promotion Bureau Chairman Tariq Karim on Tuesday assured the delegation of Pakistan Germany Business Council (PGBC) that the EPB will take serious measures to improve the system of support to exporters and the commercial counsellors.

The PGBC delegation, which was led by its Chairman, Jamil A Naz, during the meeting presented its study of the development of the trade between Pakistan and the European Union to the EPB chairman, who said that he took the opportunity of his recent visit to Germany to discuss these matters with the Pakistani commercial counsellors.

Besides, the PGBC team submitted a memorandum pressing for joining the ATA Carnet system, which will facilitate the temporary import of goods, such as samples, tools, exhibition goods, etc. into foreign countries. Jamil also requested the EPB to look into delays in refund of VAT to the exhibitors in German trade fairs.

In a discussion with the EPB it was pointed out by the PGBC delegation that the exports of traditional goods will be tremendously affected as some of the quality tests, cannot be carried out in Pakistan. Insufficient market information and difficulties to find suitable partners are besides visa problems the main obstacles to expand the trade relations with the European Union.

This was the result of a survey of Pakistan Germany Business Council presented in a meeting held on Wednesday at the Federation House in Karachi. This has resulted in stagnating exports and a slowdown in import of essential goods to improve and develop new exportable items in the past five years.

Another obstacle in the promotion of Pakistan's exports is for lack of confidence in the reliability of Pakistani exporters.

A discussion of PGBC delegation with German Consul General Ingmar Brentle resulted in the conclusion that an efficient quality control system of goods for exports has to be introduced in Pakistan.