wHAT’S INSIDE

04 08 12 14

Sialkot Chamber of Our Purpose & Annual General Meeting Members of Executive Commerce & Industry Our Ambition 2018 Committee - (2018-19) 20 36 40 42

President’s Message Former Senior Vice President’s Former Senior Presidents of SCCI Message Vice Presidents 44 46 50 52

Vice President’s Former Vice Visit of 38th Specialized Visit of 26th Mid-Career Message Presidents Diplomatic Course Management Course From Foreign Service From Nim, Peshawar Academy 53 55 57 59

Visit of Probationary Visit of H.E Mr. Jean- Visit of Maj Gen (R) Visit of Major General Officers From Ministry of Francois Cautain Ashimiyu A. Olaniyi, Oon, Muhammad Zafar Iqbal, Commerce Ambassador of the Mni, High Commissioner GOC 15 Div & Garrison to of the Federal Republic Commander, of to Pakistan

60 61 63 65

Visit of Maj. Gen. (R) Visit of Mr. Roger Visit of Delegation of Session The Progress Zahid Mubashir Khan, C. Claar Mayor, Junior Foreign Trainee of Turkish Economy & Ambassador Designate Bolingbrook-USA Diplomats from Foreign Social Change in to Ukraine Service Academy, & Islam In Modern Turkey 67 69 72 74

Visit of Mr. David Visit of Mr. Abdul Razak Visit of H.E. Mr. Vladimir Visit of Mr. Tariq Abbas Preston, Acting Deputy Dawood, Advisor to Berezyuk Deputy Chief Qureshi Regional Police High Commissioner, Prime Minister on of The Mission of Officer Commerce, , Russian Federation (RPO) Industry & Production And Investment 75 77 78 80

Visit of Mr. Yuji Tokita Visit of Major General Visit of H.E. Noordeen MOU Signing Ceremony Economic Counsellor, Syed Hasnat Amir Mohamed Shaheid, High between SCCI & MODEC Embassy of to (Hilal-e-Imtiaz Military), Commissioner of Sri Lanka Pvt. Ltd. Pakistan Director General Military Land & Board,

2 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry 81 83 86 87

Visit of Mr. Muhammad Visit of Visit of delegation from Visit of Qasim Khan Suri, Mr. , Federal Foundation University Dr. Yasmeen Rashid, Deputy Speaker National Minister for Finance, Rawalpindi Campus Provincial Minister of Assembly, Pakistan Revenue & Economic Punjab For Primary & Affairs Secondary Healthcare 88 90 92 94

Visit of H.E. Mr. Ihsan International Women’s Visit of Ms. Ann Mason, Visit of Mr. Nauman Mustafa Yurdakul, Day Celebration & Chief Political and Aslam, Executive Ambassador of Republic Launching of Women Economic Section, Director, IPO Pakistan of Turkey to Pakistan Resource Center (WRC) - US Consulate, Outreach Programme 95 96 97 98

Khawaja Masud Akhtar Visit of Mr. Siddique Cash Prize Distribution Delegation from (SI) Awarded with Sitar- Sheikh, Chairman Ceremony to Students Command & Staff I-Imtiaz by Government Pakistan American of City School and GC College Quetta Of Pakistan Business Association Women University 99 100 102 103

Visit of Mr. Khadan Dheen Visit of H.E. Mr. Manuel Visit of Mr. Mohsin Raza, Visit of Mr. Matthias Gulled, Commercial Duran Gimenez-Rico, Chief Executive Officer, Theis, Honorary Consul Attaché, Embassy of Ambassador of GEPCO of Pakistan for the State Somalia in Islamabad of NRW, 105 106 108 109

Visit of Delegation From Visit of Consul General Mr. Yuji Tokita Trade Iftar Dinner for Fund UK Pakistan Chamber of of Iran in Representative, Russian Raising Commerce & Industry Lahore-Pakistan Federation

110 112 114 116

Awareness Seminar Visit of Mr. Hafiz Mumtaz Visit of Mr. Muhammad Visit of H.E. Mr. Iwan on Quality & Lean Ahmed, Provincial Ashraf Khan, Managing Suyudhie Amri, Practices Minister for Excise, Director BSC - State Ambassador of Republic Taxation and Narcotics, Bank of Pakistan of Indonesia to Pakistan Control Department, Government of the Punjab

118 120 121 128

Visit of H.E. Mr. Furqat Training Workshop / Photographs of Different Financial Statements Sidiqov, Ambassador of Seminars during the Year Occasions during the For the Year Ended Uzbekistan to Pakistan 2018-19 Year 2018-19 June 30, 2019

Annual Report 2018 - 19 3 SIALKOT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY the guardian of

The Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry is the premier trade body representing the oriented industry of Sialkot. The Chamber was established in 1982 and the late Mr. A. D. Bhutta was its founder President.

Few cities in Pakistan can claim and medium enterprises, Uniforms Accessories, Highland to contribute as extensively to situated in and around the Outfitters, Badges, Kitchen a country’s export revenues, city, are engaged in honoring Ware, Hollow Ware to Knives industrial growth and global their global commitments for and Cutlery items. reputation as the city which export of value-added goods. is now popularly known as The city is earning over 2.0 Besides exceptional “The City of Opportunities”. Billion US Dollars annually achievements in business, the Sialkot is an important through its exports in various corporate sector of the city has economic center and the only sectors ranging from Sports exclusively emerged beyond totally export-oriented city Goods, Surgical Instruments, Corporate Social Responsibility in Pakistan. Development Leather Products, Gloves of and made a historic contribution of local cottage industries all sorts, Textile items, Sports in social sector development in Sialkot has assumed the Wear, Martial Art Uniforms and human welfare by initiating model status for the developing & Accessories, Musical projects which have given the world. Thousands of small instruments, Military & Police city a unique status among

4 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry the industrial hubs in the The said Association provided Today, The Sialkot Chamber world. And all of what has progressive and appreciative of Commerce & Industry been achieved so far, and what services to the business (SCCI), comprises of 10,000 the people of bustling city of community. There were 1000 plus active members including Sialkot aspire to achieve, is firms registered with the proprietorships, Associations of due to the presence of Sialkot association within a span Persons (AOPs), Partnerships, Chamber of Commerce & of seven years up to 1982. Corporations mostly involved Industry, a trade body which Owing to the efforts of the in exporting high-quality has gone beyond the notion of said Association, most of the products around the globe to export promotion and has set Government regulatory offices over 100 International Brands. an example for the other trade were shifted to Sialkot, but Being the apex trade body of associations to follow. SCCI is, because of the bureaucratic Sialkot, the activities of the without a doubt, Pakistan’s most attitude of the Government Sialkot Chamber of Commerce effective Chamber. In fact, it functionaries, the decision and Industry are manifold and would be hard to find a chamber on most of the cases faced multidimensional in nature. It anywhere in the world that has pendency. is watching and safeguarding so significantly transformed the interests of the business its area of jurisdiction in terms In view of the problem and community on one hand and of infrastructure and scope of difficulties of the business helping the Government in the social welfare. community of Sialkot, the formulation of various trade urgency of constituting a policies through workable Since its inception in 1982, Chamber was widely felt, which proposals, suggestions, and the SCCI has consistently could provide a more prestigious recommendations on the other. and successfully advocated and dignified forum to the The global activities of the the interest of its members local business community and Sialkot Chamber have extended and worked for the solution effectively take up the issues beyond all frontiers in terms of problems faced by them in with Government for redressal. of establishing business links running and expanding their It was decided by the pioneers among the locals and those at businesses. On top of that, of the local community to get far ends of the world. It keeps a it has also proven to be a the existing Association to the close eye on the global business fertile nursery for numerous level of Chamber of Commerce trends and provides information important initiatives undertaken and Industry. The Association to the members accordingly. collectively by the city’s business adopted the necessary Through its proactive approach, community as well as a useful resolution in the meeting held the Sialkot Chamber has greatly forum for their execution. on 12-12-1979 for taking up contributed to the expansion of Before the SCCI, the local the matter with the Ministry of industries, promotion of exports business community faced many Commerce. Lahore Chamber of and generating economic constraints and found it difficult Commerce & Industry passed activity. to ensure fast-paced industrial a similar resolution on 28-07- growth. The reason for this 1981. The Sialkot Chamber was KEY FUNCTIONS OF SIALKOT very slow progress was that the incorporated under Company CHAMBER fact no trade body was there to Act 1913 vide License No. 24 give protection to the interest dated 15-07-1982 issued by • Provision of the latest of the local industrialists. The the Ministry of Commerce, information on business and Sialkot Association of Trade under economy to its members for and Industry was formed in section 3 of Trade Organization facilitation in business. 1976 and it was affiliated with Ordinance 1961 and was Lahore Chamber of Commerce formally affiliated with FPCCI on • Performing Advocacy & & Industry. 17-08-1982. Lobbying role in the best interest of the Export Sector of Sialkot.

Annual Report 2018 - 19 5 • Federal Budget Proposals • Provision of Research- SIALKOT INTERNATIONAL to the Federal Government. based services to its AIRPORT. Members. • Trade Policy Proposals to Sialkot International Airport, the Federal Government. CSR FUNCTIONS OF SIALKOT an only project of its type CHAMBER in the country built by the • New Markets Exploration private sector, is functional. by arranging Trade The Sialkot Chamber of International and domestic Delegations to International Commerce & Industry has passenger and cargo flights Avenues and Participation not only made its contribution are operating from the Sialkot in International Exhibitions towards promotion of exports International Airport. The and Trade Fairs. for Pakistan but has also project was initiated in the year contributed extensively in the 2001. • Dissemination of social sector due to which Information & Training Sialkot has become a role SIALKOT EXPORT PROCESSING for capacity building of model for other cities of ZONE. upcoming entrepreneurs. developing countries. The Social Projects are taken up by the Pakistan’s second Export • Interacting with Sialkot Chamber of Commerce Processing Zone has been set Government/international & Industry including but not up at Sambrial-Sialkot. The agencies on micro/macro limited to: project was inaugurated in 2002. business issues and other The zone offers exceptional policy matters. SIALKOT DRY PORT TRUST. incentives for both local and foreign investors. • Arranging Seminars, The exporters of Sialkot joined Workshops, Conferences, hand to form Sialkot Dry Port SPORTS INDUSTRIES etc. Trust, which established the Dry DEVELOPMENT CENTRE. Port in Sambrial Sialkot in 1985. • Corporate training It is a unique Project in the Another project of core programs for Members. private sector in Pakistan. importance for business promotion is the establishment • Arranging meetings to SIALKOT CITY DEVELOPMENT of the Sports Industrial solve issues between PROGRAM. Development Centre. The stakeholders & project was initiated in 2006 Government. A similar initiative was taken to develop products for the by the exporters of Sialkot in industry and help it in facing the • Solving business disputes 1999 to construct city roads challenge of the mechanized through the Mediation by contributing 0.25% of their ball and other such challenges. Committee. exports proceeds under Sialkot This project has been conceived • Establishing linkages with City Development Package. and initiated by the private Academia. The collective efforts of the sector in coordination with the exporters prompted the Government. • Facilitation to members in Government to share with terms of Visa Applications. a financial contribution. All SIALKOT TANNERY ZONE. the main arteries in Sialkot • Provision of Special have been developed into Sialkot Tannery Zone is being Incentives to members international standard roads. established to shift all the through a special scattered tanneries in and arrangement with the around the city of Sialkot at Corporate Sector. a specific zone to control environmental pollution being

6 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry created by the tannery effluent. scholarships are provided to community under the umbrella The project was initiated in around 25 to 30 students so that of SCCI, have now started the 2009. they may complete their higher project of the city’s very own studies including Engineering private Airline “AIRSIAL”. The SIALKOT BUSINESS & and Medical studies. project served to add to the COMMERCE CENTRE. vision of making Sialkot a self- CHILD & SOCIAL sustainable city envisioned by To provide a common facility of DEVELOPMENT the business leaders of Sialkot. displaying the products under ORGANIZATION. Soon the world would see one roof, Sialkot Business & aircrafts hailing from Sialkot Commerce Centre is under There hardly exists any example representing the rich cultural construction adjacent to the where the Business Community heritage of the city and the building of the Chamber. The has set-up an independent industrial dynamism of the project was started in 2007. NGO within the Chambers business community. This Centre would have all the to address the social issues necessary facilities of a Display of the industry especially KHAWAJA ZAKA UD DIN TRUST Centre, so that the visiting Child Labour and Socially dignitaries may have a glimpse Responsible Entrepreneurship. Sialkot Chamber of Commerce of the Sialkot made products With the mutual harmony of & Industry is diligently engaged at one place, the facility which the key partners of the Atlanta in welfare projects. It is striving would surely play a positive role Agreement i.e. SCCI, UNICEF as a leading organization in in the promotion of exports. and ILO, Child and Social rehabilitating the victims of Development Organization disasters, relieving the poverty- KHUD KIFALAT ROZGAR TRUST. (CSDO) was established on 22 stricken people of agonies and July 2002 as an independent miseries, and building their In order to provide financial body to address the issues of confidence in life afresh the assistance to the people with Child Labour, CSR and social world over. limited resources and to help development in Sialkot. The them earn respectfully, the Sialkot Chamber extends In 2018, Sialkot Chamber of Chamber has initiated the its full support to the CSDO. Commerce & Industry conceived project of “Khud Kifalat Rozgar Its patronage is a major the idea of setting up Khawaja Trust” through the contribution source of strength to this Zaka ud Din Trust. Named after of the business community. The organization. It encourages the late Mr. Khawaja Zaka ud trust was formed in 2010. The its members to participate in Din, a leader of the Industry, financial assistance is being CSDO as part of their social the trust collects charity and provided in the shape of an responsibility towards the donations from the members interest-free loan to be paid protection of children and ensures that it reaches the back to the Trust in pre-agreed social development. Since the rightfully deserving. This year, monthly, quarterly, annually establishment of CSDO, WFSGI the Khawaja Zaka ud Din Trust, or biannual installments. has been fully supporting the collected around PKR 22.14 (M) The intent is the reduction of organization for the protection and distributed it among the employment and alleviation of of children and promoting CSR key charitable organizations poverty from the society. practices in Sialkot. of Sialkot. On the other hand, Khawaja Zaka ud Din Trust is SCHOLARSHIPS TO DESERVING AIRSIAL. also initiating a state of the STUDENTS. art Ambulance Service for the After the success of an people of the city. The Sialkot Chamber also International Airport and many provides scholarships to projects for the wellbeing of deserving students on a regular society in general and industry basis. In this regard, annually in particular, the business

Annual Report 2018 - 19 7 OUR PURPOSE

We at Sialkot Chamber of commerce & Industry are committed to fulfill our member’s requirements and strengthen our position as a quality managed organization.

OUR AMBITION

Our pledge is to provide best quality services through a member- driven, service oriented and dynamic management team. To meet this obligation, the Chamber will continue updating the employee’s skill by training, acquisition of new technology and regular re- evaluation of it’s services. The Chamber will continue to be the Advocacy & Lobbying body for its members getting relief and benefit by resolving issues relating to trade & industry. President Picture

Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI) President

Annual Report 2018 - 19 9 svp Picture

Waqas Akram Awan Senior Vice President

10 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry vp Picture

Amer Hamid Bhatti Vice President

Annual Report 2018 - 19 11 annual general meeting 2018

12 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry annual general meeting 2018

Annual Report 2018 - 19 13 Member of executive committee - (2018-19)

Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI) Waqas Akram Awan

Amer Hamid Bhatti Zahid Latif Malik

14 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Sh. Tariq Soni Naeem Javed

Arslan Sheikh M. Jalil Aslam

Annual Report 2018 - 19 15 Member of executive committee - (2018-19)

Atif Raza Khalid Mehmood

Khalid Mehmood Mughal Khurram Azeem Khan

16 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Member of executive committee - (2018-19)

Malik M. Ashraf Muhammad Jahangeer Iqbal

Abdul Ghafoor Butt Muhammad Ijaz Ch.

Annual Report 2018 - 19 17 Member of executive committee - (2018-19)

Muhammad Waseem Ayyaz Choudary

Faizan Akber Junaid Shahid

18 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Zahir Amir Dr. Uzma Azam

Mrs. Nadia Qaiser

Annual Report 2018 - 19 19 pRESIDENT’S message

It is a matter of paramount honor for me to present to you the Annual Report 2019 of this August Chamber. Despite the turbulent economic environment this year and challenges posed by the new budget, Sialkot Chamber continued its efforts to put the businesses on the path of economic diversification and growth by enhancing its value proposition for its valued members.

This year, we envisioned the idea of striving towards taking pro-business reforms to ensure a favorable environment that is conducive to growth, boost productivity, and enhance the competitiveness of the business community of Sialkot. To achieve the same, in 2018-19, we worked closely with the Government Quarters and all relevant fora for finding mutual grounds for the betterment of the Industry in general and Sialkot as a city in particular. Some of such initiatives and projects were the formulation of Ease of Doing Business Proposals, Reforms in Export Processing Zone Sialkot, Establishment of Sialkot Special Economic Zone, Relaxation of stringent laws to facilitate the Business Community and many others.

But the biggest achievement to my mind is the Tariff Rationalization by the Federal Government of the vital Raw Material used by the Industry, a project solely initiated by the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry, fruits of which would be enjoyed by the whole Export .

One of the key factors that has differentiated Sialkot Chamber from other Chambers has been the foundation of its ambitious international expansion strategy which would provide its members with access to growth opportunities in promising markets around the world through hiring of Marketing Companies backed by Warehousing and E-Commerce platforms to give a paradigm shift to the existing model of the Export Sectors of Sialkot.

As I share the tale of 2018-19 through this report, I may assure you that Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry is always focused towards providing maximum facilities to its members and taking a leap forward with its vision of becoming a catalyst for transforming the city of Sialkot into an epitome of success, a sustainable and dynamic model for others to follow.

This year at Chamber, we also focused on capacity building and enhancing prowess of our members through inculcating knowledge of Lean Manufacturing and Six Sigma among the Industry in collaboration with top Consultants of Pakistan.

In 2018-19, our family of members increased significantly as we welcomed 3685 new businesses to our member base. Today with over 12700 active members, we are one of the largest and the most influential trade bodies in Pakistan.

20 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Annual Report 2018 - 19 21 The key highlights and major achievements the Surgical Instruments Manufacturers are depicted as under: Association of Pakistan.

1. ISSUE OF ADVANCE PAYMENTS ON This was indeed one of the most burning RESOLVED issues which had put the Surgical Instruments Sector on the verge of collapse On July 14, 2018, the due to the impossible demands that the new through its FE Circular No. 06 of 2018 Medical Device Rules required in compliance. withdrew the facility to make advance In this regard, we actively pursued the case payments of USD 10,000 on imports, and voiced our concerns with the Government disallowing the SME based export industry of and after months of hectic exercise, we Pakistan to smaller quantities of Raw were successful in getting an exemption for Material on Advance Payment basis. the Surgical Instruments Sector from the Medical Device Rules vide SRO 32 (I)/2018 As we joined office, resolution of this issue dated January 16, 2018. was our foremost priority considering the fact that the previous team of Office Bearers 3. TARIFF RATIONALIZATION OF RAW had worked hard for the same. Through MATERIAL concerted efforts of my team backed by continuous lobbying and advocacy of Sialkot Through the Federal Budget 2019-20, a total Chamber with Government Authorities of 114 raw material items relating to the including the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Export Sectors of Sialkot were rationalized Commerce and the State Bank of Pakistan, and duties were waived off on most of them. we are able to finally resolve the issue for good. This is a big step for Export Sector Development as it would reduce the cost On January 01, 2019, the State Bank of and would make our exports competitive Pakistan issued the Official EPD Circular in the International Markets. This year, we Letter No. 01 of 2019, lifting the moratorium initiated the project by calling proposals from on advance payments. all members to submit the list of vital raw materials used in their respective sectors. 2. ISSUE OF MEDICAL DEVICES RULES BY After a month of intensive working by our DRAP RESOLVED team, we were able to submit a list of 377 items to the Federal Government of Pakistan In January 2018, Drug Regulatory Authority for tariff reduction out of which 35 were of Pakistan (DRAP) issued Medical Devices approved in 2nd Finance Amendment Bill and Rules vide its SRO 32 (I)/2018 dated January 79 were included in the Budget 2019-20 16, 2018. The new medical rules also encompassed Surgical Instruments Sector The whole exercise was not easy as it demanding the manufacturers involved in required us to have series of meetings export & import of Surgical Instruments all throughout the year with Government to comply with stiff conditions and rules Functionaries including Mr. Abdul Razak required for Pharmaceutical Industry, which Dawood, Advisor to PM on Commerce & have been included in the SRO without due Textile, Mr. Asad Umer, Former Minister of deliberation with the stakeholders from the Finance, Mr. , Minister of Surgical Instruments sector i.e., the Sialkot State for Finance, Chairman, National Tariff Chamber of Commerce & Industry and Commission, Mrs. Robina Akhter, Member

22 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry National Tariff Commission, Mr. Javed of Commerce & Industry devised specific Ghani, Member Customs, FBR and Mr. Iqbal proposals through which Pakistan can Muneeb, Chief (Ops), FBR. improve its Ease of Doing Business Ranking. The proposals specifically focused on Access It is indeed a big achievement of Sialkot to Finance for SMEs, Exemption of Duties & Chamber, its team and most importantly on Samples, Mechanism of all Refunds its members and I am sure it would greatly through PRCs, Enhancement of DLTL help my honorable members to utilize this Rates, One Window Facility for Exporters, facility to grow exports. Sialkot Chamber Establishment of Special Economic Zone in of Commerce & Industry would continue to Sialkot, Exemption for Temporary Imports pursue the Government to add more items from Infrastructure Development Cess and in the list for rationalizing tariff in future as many more. well. The proposals were shared with key 4. ISSUE OF LEGALIZATION OF DOCUMENTS personalities including the Honorable Prime RESOLVED Minister of Pakistan, Minister of Finance, Minister of Commerce & Textile, and A significant number of our members were Chairman FBR. I am positive that the Sialkot facing issues as some countries were not Chamber would continue to peruse these accepting documents with a certain stamp proposals until the formal approvals. being affixed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & 6. REFORMS IN EXPORT PROCESSING ZONES Industry took up the matter with Ministry of (EPZ) Foreign Affairs and after thorough follow- up, Ministry of Foreign Affairs has agreed Our special focus this year was on bringing not to affix the said stamp on documents for necessary reforms in Export Processing Exporters. Zones. In 1981, The Government of Pakistan took a revolutionary initiative of establishing Through several lobbying activities and Export Processing Zones in Pakistan meetups, Ministry of Foreign Affairs vides its including the following Salient Features: Directive dated June 14, 2019, has waived off the formality of affixing the stamp “Ministry • No taxes on imports of Materials. of Foreign Affairs is not Responsible for the Contents of the Documents”. • No taxes on import of Construction Materials. It is a big achievement and relief for our members and we would like to thank • Non Applicability of Labor Laws Mr. Muhammad Sarfraz Butt, Chairman, Departmental Committee on Liaison with • No Customs Audit Requirement Embassies & Government Departments for his relentless efforts in said regard. • Holding of Materials in EPZ until sale without fixation of the period for Re- 5. EASE OF DOING BUSINESS PROPOSALS Export

As per the vision of Federal Government However, with the passage of time, FBR to take necessary ease of doing business made several modifications in the laws of measures for the betterment of SMEs and EPZ taking away the incentives and benefits Export Industry of Pakistan, Sialkot Chamber from the Investors interested in EPZs

Annual Report 2018 - 19 23 discouraging them to invest and establish Ventures and pave the way for a new era of facilities in the said Zone. This is the same Industrialization in the region. reason that EPZs today are deserted and have not produced desired results for the 8. MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH Economy. ANLIURFA TEKNOKENT

We at Sialkot Chamber took the initiative to ANLIURFA TEKNOKENT, a Technology get certain laws amended to ease up the Development Zone established under Harran business environment in the EPZs and to University and Ministry of Science, Industry, encourage new industrialization through and Technology, Turkey has been working Joint Ventures. The breakthrough occurred as a center of excellence and a model when on the directions of Prime Minister of example of Industry-Academia Linkages for Pakistan, a special committee was formed Turkey since many years now. It is due to to discuss our proposals. By the grace of the same institution, the Turkish Industry Almighty, the proposals have been submitted has transformed itself and experienced a to the Federal Government and we are momentous growth through Research & very hopeful that most of them would be Development Activities and Development of approved. new product lines and technologies. Managing all this was an exhausting task as we had to meet the top brass of the This year, Sialkot Chamber had the , Ministry of opportunity to meet the top brass Finance, Ministry of Industries and Ministry Researchers of the august institution of Commerce & Textile to plead our case and through which we were successful in the convince the authorities on our proposals. signing of Memorandum of Understanding between SCCI and Teknokent to cooperate 7. SIALKOT SPECIAL ECONOMIC ZONE on Research and replicate the model of Sanliurfa Teknokent in Pakistan. The intent With the advent of CPEC and its prospects is to help the Industry upgrade and enhance for Pakistan, the Federal Government had their manufacturing capacities to meet announced several SEZs to be established the ever changing work market trends and across the country. However, the Golden demands. Economic Triangle consisting of Sialkot, Gujranwala, and Gujrat was ignored despite 9. ACQUISITION OF FOREIGN EXCHANGE the momentous industrialization potential MODULE FOR MEMBERS lying in the region. Sialkot Chamber proposed the Federal Government of the idea of We are pleased to share with you that the having a Special Economic Zone in Sialkot Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry and thankfully with the efforts of Mr. Abdul has acquired the Live Foreign Exchange Razak Dawood, Advisor to PM on Commerce Module for the facilitation of our members. & Textile and Mian Aslam Iqbal, Provincial As you all know that the situation of the Minister for Industries, the Government has Foreign Exchange Market is volatile and it principally agreed on the proposal and the is imperative for Export Industry of Sialkot process of land identification and acquisition to have real-time statistics of Currency has been started. Exchange Rates to plan and forecast their transactions. Sialkot Special Economic Zone would be a staggering opportunity for local and foreign We hope that this facility would serve investors to set up Industries through Joint our members to get maximum benefit

24 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry in negotiating exchange rates with their 12. WINDS PROJECT WITH USAID respective banks. Through this, we have also empowered our Research & Development Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Department to provide members with the apart from its Export Promotion role and latest FX Projections. facilitation to its members is actively involved in the promotion of Women Entrepreneurs 10. HIRING OF ADVOCACY AND LOBBYING and a strong advocate of “Women AGENT Empowerment”.

Hiring of an advocacy and lobbying To support the vision in practical terms, a representative in Islamabad was under project “Women Investment in Networks of discussion for several years in the Chamber. Dairy Sectors – WINDS” had been initiated As you know, Sialkot being a distant city last year with the collaboration of USAID- from Islamabad has to face several issues in PEEP. Aim of this project is to empower terms of voicing its concerns in Government women entrepreneurs in the dairy sector. Corridors. There was a need to have a Under this Project, technical training and permanent representation in Islamabad to business opportunities are provided to follow up on our issues and proposals with the rural female farmers with the aim to the Government. contribute positively in their lives towards prosperity. This year, we hired services of MODEC, an Islamabad based firm specializing in On the other side, a company “Sialkot such activities. The agreement was done & Livestock Company (SALCO) for the period of 6 months on probation. Pvt. Ltd.” has been formed under the The organization served the SCCI and was auspices of this project to run & expand instrumental in highlighting our points the activities of the said project on a and necessary follow up with important commercially large scale. Along with male Ministries. members, women entrepreneurs of the city are also the shareholders/directors in this 11. PM INCENTIVE PROGRAM company and are playing their significant role for this project. Through this project, The Drawback of Local Taxes and Levies job & investment opportunities will also be under the PM Incentive Program proved to increased. be a success for the Industry as the exports of Pakistan faced a positive trend after years 13. REVIVAL OF SWEDISH TECHNICAL of decline. The scheme is up and running till UNIVERSITY PROJECT the Financial Year 2021. Swedish University Project conceived in 2006 We are pleased to share that clearance was probably the best initiative taken by the of PKR 1,675,689,325 under all the DLTL Business Community of Sialkot which, if Scheme has been made by the State Bank of completed, would have changed the destiny Sialkot to the exporters of the city till June of both the Industry and the populace of 27, 2019. We are in continuous follow up with Sialkot. However, it is regretful the due to the Authorities and I am sure that pending red-tapism and lack of will at the Punjab claims would be cleared soon. Government, the project was shelved despite acquisition of 500-acre land.

Annual Report 2018 - 19 25 This year, we have tried to revive the project same, we renewed our corporate agreements and to pursue the same with the Provincial with airlines like the Emirates and and and Federal Governments and I am very also included Air for the facilitation hopeful that in coming years, we would see of our members to get special discounts on the landmark project finally being executed. airfare.

14. KHAWAJA ZAKA UD DIN TRUST 17. DEVELOPMENT OF MANAGEMENT INFORMATION SYSTEM FOR SCCI Last year, one of the many positive initiatives among others was the formation of As a leading Advocacy & Lobbying body, Khawaja Zaka ud Din Trust by my learned SCCI’s main aim is to provide best quality predecessor. The trust was a success among service through a member-driven, service the community of Sialkot which focused oriented and dynamic management team. on providing support to the organizations To meet this obligation, the Chamber has working for society. to continue updating the employee’s skill by training, acquisition of new technology and This year, we collected a staggering PKR regular re-evaluation of its services. The 22,145,850 worth of contributions from Organization’s success in the achievement of the open hearted people of Sialkot and its strategic outcomes will depend critically distributed PKR 19,796,800 to the well on ensuring that it remains an increasingly deserving Social and Charitable Institutions responsive and efficient Organization of the city for wellbeing of marginalized. equipped to provide best services to its members. I have all the best hopes for this Trust and I have faith that it would grow into one of In order to be responsive and efficient, the most prolific Charitable Institutions of SCCI needs to ensure that it builds a Pakistan in near future. comprehensive management information system and enterprise resource planning 15. STATE OF THE ART AMBULANCE SERVICE software for:

Another positive initiative of Sialkot Chamber a. ensuring better service to Member and was further streamlined this year as the all stakeholders; ambulance service was not being utilized to b. placing results at the core of planning its full potential. In order to provide the public and managing programs; of Sialkot with the facility round the clock, c. managing human and financial resources we signed an MOU with Rescue 1122 and effectively; handed over the Ambulance to 1122 Sialkot d. providing reliable operational support to Management. Through this, the Ambulance programs; and above all would be available to the public of Sialkot e. ensuring efficiency and compliance of its round the clock with professional staff. daily operations.

16. AGREEMENTS WITH AIRLINES Over the years, Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry has garnered praise Facilitating the members of SCCI in their and recognition nationally and internationally daily work routines has been on our agenda due to its projects, services for the members throughout this tenure. In this regard, SCCI and issues resolved with the Government. signed MOUs with several corporate service However, with the passage of time Chamber providers like Airlines. In continuation of the has evolved into an organization with complex

26 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry and multiple operations which would also participation of several trade fairs around the increase in the future. Given the stature globe, planned delegations to the following of SCCI and future challenges, it is vital countries and continued the execution of for us to evolve and strive for continuous delegations announced in the previous year: improvement. As I believe future proofing Chamber would increase our efficiency • Surgical Specific Trade Delegation to significantly and all the investments made for the system would pay off. This would also allow SCCI to set a benchmark of • Trade Delegation to France performance management for other Chambers and Associations to follow and • Trade Delegation to Morocco would make SCCI, perhaps, the only trade body in Pakistan with such sophisticated • Trade Delegation to Australia technology. But most importantly, it would allow us to serve our members better, as • Trade Delegation to Turkey serving the ever increasing member base is the prime reason for the existence of this • Women Specific Trade Delegation to Chamber. Turkey

I am glad that through the decision of the • Market Study tour of Somalia Executive Committee, the work on the implementation of such a system has begun The biggest achievement under this in our tenure. committee came in the shape of arranging a Pavilion at the FIME Show, Las Vegas, 18. PARTICIPATION IN INTERNATIONAL TRADE 2019 with the special and concerted DELEGATIONS efforts of Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry team. This year, TDAP had dropped New market exploration and finding avenues participation in the show leaving several of for increasing trade have always been the exhibitors from Sialkot with an opportunity to foremost priority of the Sialkot Chamber showcase their products at the event. Sialkot of Commerce & Industry. It wouldn’t be Chamber, realizing the significance of the wrong to say that SCCI exists to serve its issue was swift to take action and convinced members by facilitating them to expand their Trade Development Authority of Pakistan to businesses. The Departmental Committee on hire a special pavilion for the members of Fairs & Exhibitions/Delegations is fully aware Sialkot Chamber. of the fact and is actively pursuing the same agenda. It is to the credit of this Chamber to 19. BUSINESS VISA FACILITATION FOR set the trend of sending self-financed Trade MEMBERS Delegations to International Trade Avenues in pursuit of B2B Exchanges. Although it is Sialkot Chamber, issues Business Visa the duty of Trade Development Authority of Recommendation letters to its members Pakistan to facilitate such exchanges yet we through a foolproof scrutiny system to did not wait for the Government to facilitate help them visit foreign countries for the all our delegations and made it possible on a promotion of businesses. We appreciate and self-help basis. remain thankful that foreign missions in Pakistan acknowledge our strong scrutiny This year, the Fairs & Exhibitions Committee, and positively consider Visa Cases of our apart from facilitating the members in the members.

Annual Report 2018 - 19 27 Throughout the whole process, we ensure projects is the Child Labor Elimination that strict merits of professionalism are Program from Soccer Ball Industry of Sialkot. maintained and maximum number of The project has successfully eradicated child members are facilitated. I would especially labor as a result of strict monitoring of the like to thank Mr. Waqas Akram Awan, Senior Program. Vice President for managing the issuance of VRL with utmost care, vigilance and CSDO has been materializing and processing dedication to serve the members different designs to create a protective atmosphere for the marginalized children of Details of Visa Recommendatory requests society by adopting defensive and guarding especially processed during the year are methods of various categories very effectively given below: with the beneficial support of Industry.

• Number of Visa Recommendatory It provides the best quality services to poor of Letters Issued 3224 the poorest communities. CSDO is running eight schools to provide quality education 20. AIRSIAL to the deprived children living in straitened conditions and circumstances under the AIRSIAL is one of the projects of Sialkot banner of SCCI. Currently, more than1100 Chamber which has received much traction students are getting free of cost education in and acclaim around the globe. The Project these schools. which was announced in 2016 is heading towards its completion and soon people 22. SPORTS INDUSTRIES DEVELOPMENT would see planes hailing from Sialkot CENTRE reaching out to the World. The Management Team of AIRSIAL is dedicated and is working Sports Industries Development Centre hard for its earliest launch. This year, (SIDC) and Product Development Centre AIRSIAL is expected to complete the process (PDC) for Composites Based Sports Goods of procurement of Aircraft. are joint projects of Small and Medium Enterprise Development Authority (SMEDA) 21. CHILD AND SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT under Ministry of Industries and Production ORGANIZATION (MoI&P), Government of Pakistan and Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry. Child and Social Development Organization is another distinctive project of Sialkot The highlights of both projects during the Chamber of Commerce and Industry. It has year 2018-19 are mentioned below: been acting profoundly for the enrichment of society through several CSR initiatives. SIDC: CSDO is evolved as an outcome of a unique partnership which was developed • Manufacturing of almost 1,700,000 between Sialkot Chamber of Commerce bladders, 2,050,000 Rubber nozzles, and Industry, United Nations Children Fund 60,000 Thermo balls, 34,000 and International Labor Organization (ILO) and winding of 310,000 bladders to eliminate child labor from Soccer ball for international brands through local industry of Sialkot in 1997 at Atlanta Georgia. industry. It’s worth mentioning that patronage with other esteemed organizations has made it • Sampling of American Football Initiated a role model. One of the most captivating

28 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry PDC: is supplying 4.9 MW from their existing system however afterward the 21 MW • Product Development Centre (PDC) for grid station will be constructed. Composites Based Sports Goods, Sialkot has been approved Rs. 488 Mn and funds • roads 120, 90 and 60 feet provided for FY: 2018-19 have released. for easy haul and 80% work has already been completed. • Designing of project building have been completed by civil consultant. • The Process Design of the first module of CETP having the capacity of 4000 m3 per • Civil Work contract has been awarded day has been finalized by International/ and contractor has started work at site. National experts through UNIDO comprising of Civil Works, Electrical 23. SIALKOT TANNERY ZONE Works, and Mechanical Works.

Sialkot Tannery Zone is another project • UNIDO is in Final Phase of qualifying with immense importance for the Industry Contractor for the procurement of of Sialkot and another feather in the cap of Electrical and Mechanical Equipment of Sialkot Chamber. The project which would CETP first module. bring brighter prospects for Leather Sector in future and would serve to protect the • STAGL has Pre-Qualified Civil environment in compliance with the latest Contractors for the Construction of CETP REACH Standards is nearing its completion first module and hopefully, the contractor at a rapid pace thanks to the abled team of will be finalized until August 2019. STZ. • To carry Tannery Effluents to CETP Following are the major milestones the Construction of Drainage system project has achieved so far. and Culverts is underway, and 85% completed already. • A total of 620 plots have been allotted to the applicants in draws already held • For the treatment of Chrome originating during public gatherings at STZ. Overall from Chrome Tanning, a Chrome 350 Members have been handed over Recovery Plant in STZ is planned. For the Possession Letters after paying off purpose, a contract has been awarded complete Land Cost and Development to M/s In-consult for the Process design Charges and they have started and Tender Documents. construction of boundary walls of their Plots. • For assurance of LWG compliant Tanneries setup, Typical Tannery Design • Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) guideline preparation is in progress study has been completed and NOC for for the tanneries to be housed in the EIA from the Environmental Protection STZ. For the purpose contract has been Agency (EPA) has already been obtained awarded to an Italian company M/s for the Zone. Italprogetti, by UNIDO and hopefully • The project shall have an external by September 2019 the design will be overhead Electrical System; 98% of work finalized. is already completed. Initially, GEPCO

Annual Report 2018 - 19 29 24. KHUD KIFALAT ROZGAR TRUST Federation, European Union, Turkey Spain, and Indonesia visited Sialkot Chamber “Khud Kifalat Rozgar Trust” formed in 2010, for intensive sessions on prospects of has been successfully providing financial increasing bilateral trade. assistance in the shape of interest-free loan to the people of Sialkot aspiring for 26. WITHDRAWAL OF ZERO RATED REGIME BY bread and butter. The project is a milestone THE GOVERNMENT which many dream of achieving but with the determination of the business community of The Federal Government in its Budget Sialkot has been making waves across the 2019-20 withdrew the Zero Rated Facility country. via SRO 1125 (I)/2011 extended to the 05 Export Oriented Sectors which exempted Since 2010, the project has disbursed a the Industry from paying of Sales and total amount of PKR 55,108,000 to a total of ultimately be free of hassle of pendency of 1058 Borrowers. I am pleased to mention refund claims. that during my tenure, we successfully disbursed PKR 18,951,100 amount of load to This action of the Government would have the deserving people striving to change their most negative effect on the already crises fates through self-employment. ridden Export Industry of Pakistan especially the SMEs of Sialkot. Export Industry of As this initiative has a charitable purpose, Pakistan, despite challenges like increased this Chamber encourages its members to input costs, pending refunds and drawbacks contribute towards funds of the Trust to claims, and complicated business procedures expand its operations. and consistent devaluation of currency, is striving hard to sustain and contribute 25. ENHANCED LINKAGES WITH FOREIGN towards economic growth of the country in MISSIONS which zero rated regime is playing a key role.

Sialkot Chamber realizes that having strong Sialkot Chamber, realizing the gravity of the relationships with Foreign Missions in situation and foreseeing its implications on Pakistan ultimately benefits its members and the Industry, took up the matter with the serves to project a soft image of the city and Government to provide necessary facilitation the country. This year, we worked on a two- to the Export Sector of Pakistan especially prong strategy i.e., inviting the Ambassadors Sialkot which has 100% export oriented and Diplomats to visit Sialkot and also Sectors. going to the Missions directly to meet the Ambassadors/High Commissioners, and In this regard, our team had intensive Commercial/Economic Teams to represent sessions with Chairman FBR, Mr. Shabbar Sialkot and finding avenues of cooperation in Zaidi and his team to devise a solution for promotion of bilateral trade. exempting 100% Export Oriented Sectors from the levy of Sales Tax. We are pleased We visited key Diplomatic Representations to share that the Chairman FBR had agreed including the , Germany, China, in principle to allow necessary amendments Italy, Brazil, Somalia, , and South in SRO 327(I)/2008 to restore benefits and Korea. Also this year, 13 Foreign Diplomats, provide relief to the Export Industry. High Commissioners, and Ambassadors of countries like Nigeria, Australia, Sri Lanka, I am pleased to share with you that through United States, Somalia, Germany, Russian SRO 327 (I)/2008, following facilities would be

30 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry made available to the Export Sector: December 26, 2018.

• Facility of Import of Raw Material without • Seminar on ‘Islamic Banking’ with the Customs Duty, Additional Customs Duty, collaboration of SCCI & Meezan Bank, on Regulatory Duty and Sales Tax. January 19, 2019 • Facility to purchase Raw Material from Commercial Exporters on Zero Rated • Seminar on ‘Cluster Meet-up’ for SMEs Sales Tax and FED invoice. held on January 12, 2019.

• Facility of exemption from Sales Tax on • Training Session on ‘Drawback of Local Electricity and Gas. Taxes and Levies Order for Exporters’ by State Bank of Pakistan held on January • Facility to get Raw Material Shipment 07, 2019. released upon Provisional Approval by IOCO rather than waiting for full • Training Workshop on ‘Occupational approval. Health and Safety Environment’ held on February 12, 2019. • Facility to dispose of machinery and parts after 5 years which was previously • Seminar on ‘Facebook Marketing for 10 years. SMEs’ in Collaboration with the SMEDA held on March 19, 2019. We are affirmative that a new amended SRO in said regard would soon be issued by the • Seminar on ‘EU Medical Devices Federal Government. Regulations (MDR)’ organized by the Departmental Committee on Surgical 27. SERIES OF SEMINARS AND WORKSHOPS Industry/Veterinary/Personal Care Industry held on February 26, 2019. This year we had a special focus to arrange several seminars and workshops optimized • 3rd Awareness Session of City World- with the needs of Sialkot’s Business Wide Partnership for Water Stewardship Community. Following are some of the major and Sustainable Water use held on workshops and seminars that were arranged March 28, 2019. during 2018-19. • Seminar on ‘Leadership Skill • Awareness Session on Breast Cancer Development’ held on April 04, 2019. held on October 19, 2018. • Seminar on ‘Quality and Lean • Seminar on “The Progress of Turkish Management’ with the collaboration of Economy and Social Change in Turkey Kaizen Quest held on April 06, 2019. and Islam in Modern Turkey” by the three Turkish Scholars held on November 24, • 10-Days Training Session on 2018. ‘E-Commerce’ for Women Entrepreneurs of Rural Areas held on April 16, 2019. • Maritime Awareness Session by Station Commander (Navy) Lahore held on • Program on ‘IQBAL DAY’ held on April 23, December 24, 2018. 2019.

• Seminar on ‘Cyber Security’ held on • Seminar on “New Horizons of Export

Annual Report 2018 - 19 31 Trade Finance” by Prima Dollar held on 29. RENOVATION OF SCCI BUILDING April 25, 2019. With the passage of time and increase in • Seminar on “Online Tax Payment” with operational activities of Chamber, it is vital the collaboration of State Bank held on that the Chamber building poses a modern May 03, 2019. and compact effectively utilizing its space and giving maximum room for carrying • Seminar on Leather Working Group out various activities. This year, we also (LWG) Protocol by Sialkot Tannery worked on enhancing the interior of the Association in collaboration with M/s. glorious landmark building of SCCI. We Asian Verification and Sialkot Chamber have created a master plan in collaboration held on May 07, 2019. with the professional architects and interior designers to build state of the art meeting • 2nd Session on ‘Lean Management’ by rooms for the staff and members to have Kaizen Quest held on May 18, 2019. meetings and working stations for the secretariat to perform their duties in a • Seminar on ‘ERP system’ organized by comfortable and modern environment. The Abacus Consulting held on June 19, working on the plan has begun and I am 2019. positive that it would be completed before September 2019. • Awareness session on ‘Assets declaration scheme 2019’ held on June 30. PRESIDENT’S EXCELLENCE AWARD 20, 2019. In recognition of remarkable services towards • Seminar on Identification of Problems resolution of problems faced by the members of the Industry and their Solutions in of Sialkot Chamber and support rendered collaboration with XAVOR, a private to the Office Bearers, President’s Award for Research Institute held on July 15, 2019 Excellence is endowed upon the following Chairpersons of Departmental Committees: 28. FORMATION OF NEW DEPARTMENTAL COMMITTEES MR. WAQAS AKRAM AWAN

Considering the ever-changing dynamics Chairman, Departmental Committees of the Industry and the city, this year we on Human Resource, Trade Disputes introduced the following departmental (International/Labor & Local), Membership committees. Bylaws/Visa Letters, Agriculture/Live Stock and Dairy Development • Departmental Committee on Real Estate CHAUDHARY AHMED ZULFIQAR HAYAT • Departmental Committee on Engineering Chairman, Departmental Committee on FBR/ • Departmental Committee on Farogh e Customs/Sales Tax/Federal Taxation Iqbaliat MR. SHAFIQ UR REHMAN • Departmental Committee on Textile & Apparel Industry Chairman, Departmental Committee on Banking & Finance

32 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry MR. JALIL ASLAM MR. ZAHID LATIF MALIK

Chairman, Departmental Committee on Chairman, Departmental Committees on Badges Industry Local Government/City Package and Project Committee on New Education Institutes, MR. MIR ALAMGIR MEYER Health Projects & Other Initiatives

Chairman, Departmental Committee on Post MR. ZAHID HAMEED Office/ Chairman, Departmental Committee on SHEIKH ZOHAIB RAFIQUE Garrison HQ/Cantonment Board Affairs

Chairman, Departmental Committee on MR. MUHAMMAD AZHAR DAR Emergency/Disaster Management/ Work Safety Chairman, Departmental Committee on Table Cutlery, Flatware/Knives, & Kitchen Ware MR. TAHIR MAJID KAPUR DR. MUHAMMAD JAVAID DEURA Chairman, Departmental Committee on Dryport/Shipping/Airport/Railway/ Chairman, Departmental Committee on Transportation Musical Instruments

MR. NASIR SALEEM MIRZA DR. KHURRAM ANWAR KHAWAJA

Chairman, Departmental Committee on Chairman, Departmental Committee on Crime Watch & Traffic Management Education (Universities)

MR. MUHAMMAD KASHIF ALMAS DR. MARYAM NOUMAN

Chairman, Departmental Committee on Chairperson, Departmental Committee on Information Technology Women Entrepreneurs

MR. OMER KHALID MR. MALIK NASEER AHMED

Chairman, Departmental Committee on Chairman, Departmental Committee on Media/Cyber Crime Accounts

MR. AMER HAMID BHATTI MR. HASNAIN CHEEMA

Chairman, Departmental Committees Chairman, Departmental Committee on on WAPDA, Chamber Building/Mosque Sports Industry/Sports Wear/Bags Maintenance/ Repair and Real Estate. MR. IKRAM UL HAQ MR. GHAFOOR BUTT Chairman, Departmental Committee on Chairman, Departmental Committee on Sui Surgical/Dental/Veterinary/Personal Care Gas Industry

Annual Report 2018 - 19 33 MIAN OMER FAROOQ MIAN ASIF ALI

Chairman, Departmental Committee on Chairman, Departmental Committee on Gloves Industry Sports Activities

MR. MUHAMMAD SARFRAZ BUTT DR. JEHANGEER IQBAL

Chairman, Departmental Committees on Fair Chairman, Departmental Committee on & Exhibition/Delegation and CPEC/Liaison Martial Arts/Fitness with Govt./Embassies MR. MAJID RAZA BHUTTA MR. MUHAMMAD SARWAR Chairman, Departmental Committee on Chairman, Departmental Committee LWG/Shoes & Saddlery on Leather Garments, Industry/Leather Products MR. KHALID MEHMOOD SADRA

MR. AHTESHAM GILLANI Chairman, Departmental Committee on Excise & Provincial Taxation Chairman, Departmental Committee on Environmental Protection HAFIZ JUNAID SHAHID SANDAL

MR. FIZAN AKBAR Chairman, Departmental Committee on Young Entrepreneurs Chairman, Departmental Committee on SME/ Training Committee MALIK MUHAMMAD ASHRAF

MR. ASAD BAJWA Chairman, Departmental Committee on Hospitals & Health Services Chairman, Departmental Committee on Labour Laws MR. RIZWAN AHMED

MR. DAUD AHMED CHATTHA Chairman, Departmental Committee on Textile & Apparel Industry Chairman, Departmental Committee on Library & Publications SYED SHAHZADA AHMED IBN E IQBAL

MIAN MUHAMMAD KHALIL Chairman, Departmental Committee on Farogh e Iqbaliat Chairman, Departmental Committee on Event Management & Liaison Committee MR. ZAHID HUSSAIN MUGHAL

MR. SHAHID RAZA Chairman, Departmental Committee on Engineering Chairman, Departmental Committee on Child Labour

34 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry MR. SARFRAZ BHATTI an entrepreneur with a personal interest in developing systems and making systems Chairman, Project Committee on Sialkot work, I tried to put my efforts in giving a new Tannery Zone direction to the Industry with a systemized approach and ultimately bringing a paradigm DR. MUHAMMAD ASLAM DARR shift in the manufacturing sector of Sialkot. This city has given me an identity and through Chairman, Project Committee on Small this tenure, I tried to give something back to Industrial Estates/EPZ/Small Industrial this city of progressive people. Cluster As the President and a humble member of MR. QAISER IQBAL BARYAR this Chamber, I have a vision for the Industry that together, we shall take it to new heights Chairman, Project Committee on New of success, recognition, and sustainability. Welfare Projects Related to Sialkot/Fund And I have a firm belief that together we Raising Committee would achieve it against all odds.

Since its inception, the Sialkot Chamber of Here, I would especially like to thank the Commerce & Industry has proved to be one Group Leader, Mr. Riaz ud Din Sheikh for of the premier trade bodies of Pakistan. entrusting me with the opportunity to serve Achieving so my milestones not only for the the business community. But most of all, I Industry but also for the general public of would like to thank the Almighty Allah for Sialkot. All the projects we have done are giving me the strength to fill in the most a testament to our love for the country and prestigious seat of the city of Iqbal, the our sheer belief in the future. We have faced Presidency of Sialkot Chamber of Commerce challenges and discouragement but we, as a & Industry. family of the largest exporting businesses of Pakistan, kept on dreaming and turning them I wish the future Office Bearers and the into realities with our bare hands. Executive Committee the best of luck in taking the baton of progress ahead. This year was just one step taken ahead in the same legacy, as I along with an astounding team of Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry, in shape of my fellow Office Bearers including Mr. Waqas Akram Thanking you, Awan, Senior Vice President, Mr. Amer Hamid Bhatti, Vice President, The Members of Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI) Executive Committee, Chairpersons of All the President Departmental Committees and also the most abled Secretariat of Sialkot Chamber, strived to live up to the expectations of our worthy members.

We may have tried to do things a little differently with an out of the box approach, but we made sure that all of our efforts were to the best interests of the community. As

Annual Report 2018 - 19 35 FORMER PRESIDENTS OF SCCI

A.D Bhutta M. Anwar Khawaja Nadeem Iqbal Sh. 1982-1983/1986 1984-1985 1987

Mian M. Shafi M. Yunus Ratara Kh. Zka-ud-Din 1988 1989 1990-1991

Ghazanfar Ali Shabbir M. Anwer Qureshi Sh. Altan Azmat 1993-1994 1991-1992 1992-1993

36 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry FORMER PRESIDENTS OF SCCI

Syed Mukhtar Bokhari M. Akhtar Qaiser M. Hanif Khan 1994-1995 1995-1996 1996-1997

Dr. M. Aslam Darr Mian M. Riaz Khawar A. Khawaja 1997-1998 1998-1999 1999-2000

Mian Naeem Javed Daud Ahmad Chattha Baber Iqbal 2000-2001 2001-2002 2002-2003

Annual Report 2018 - 19 37 FORMER PRESIDENTS OF SCCI

Sh. Tahir M. Kapur Qaiser S. Shabbir Dr. Nouman Idris Butt 2003-2004 2004-2005 2005-2006

Sh. Abdul Waheed Sandal Dr. Khurram A. Khawaja Hassan Ali Bhatti 2006-2007 2007-2008 2008-2009

Muhammad Ishaq Butt Ghulam Mustafa Ch. Naeem Anwar Qureshi 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012

38 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry FORMER PRESIDENTS OF SCCI

Sheikh Abdul Majeed Dr. Sarfraz Bashir Fazal Jillani 2012-2013 2013-2014 2014-2015

Maj. (R) Mansoor Ahmed Majid Raza Bhutta Zahid Latif Malik 2015-2016 2016-2017 2017-2018

Annual Report 2018 - 19 39 SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Business friendly environment, Ease of Quarters or the Academic Institutes. Doing business, steered economic policies During this tenure, I carried a mission of and coherence of the institutes with single flourishing the business community for vision to elevate the exports of the country which I personally visited the Commercial are the lifelines of any industry. Sialkot Sections of many Embassies to increase Chamber of Commerce and Industry enjoys avenues of Trade for the Business the status of maintaining its strategic community of Sialkot. It is my strong belief position as an apex trade body of a multi- that skilled craftsmanship is the lifeline dynamic and multi-sector Industry. Sialkot of the Sialkot Industry and growth of the Chamber with distinction from other industry relies on skilled development, conventional trade bodies, advocates for for which I carried forward the vision the rights of its members, the Industry as a of establishing Industry and Academia whole and the Sialkot city at large, knocking linkages. the doors of the Government, Competent Authorities and Foreign Bodies to provide After the Almighty, I would like to thank the city the stature, Sialkot as a city, most my Fellow Office Bearers, Executive deservingly holds. Committee, Chairmen departmental committees and competent team of As Senior Vice President, I humbly enjoyed Sialkot Chamber who put the faith in me the self-esteemed spirit while representing and made everything possible with their the Industry of Sialkot, which maintains dedication and collaboration. I am pleased a prominence of being backbone of the with the services I have rendered to the country’s economy, The export Industry members of Sialkot Chamber by issuing of Sialkot has attained a position of visa recommendation letters which has representing Pakistan as a people with helped them getting an easy access to the business-oriented mindset, hardworking international market through their visits and skilled, maintaining high quality and abroad. I also strived to make justified achieving diversity in product development. decision in trade dispute cases with clarity Indeed, the intense Research and and utmost purity. Development undertaken at each step of manufacturing and accomplishing precision Other than the business and diplomatic in their finished products, has graced the obligations, my vision was also to increase city with a slogan “Made in Sialkot”. the competency of SCCI’s departments, by serving the members with instant service Sialkot Chamber as an institute is providing and resolving their justified issue on export Industry with variety of platforms in prompt basis. I am sure that coming office shape of training and consultant sessions bearers would further strived to enhance for improving skills of the labor, developing the productivity of Sialkot Chamber as an corporate culture, capacity building and institute and its contribution for Export complying with international standards and Industry of Sialkot would be taken to the certifications. One of the vital role of this next level. institute is to develop bilateral relations with different Embassies, making a way I am grateful to my group leaders forward for its members to interact with who trusted in my abilities and given foreign missions and increase their trade the confidence to serve the business volumes. community with best of my capacity and capabilities. Being an office bearer, I tried my best to serve this industry with my best possible Waqas Akram Awan efforts and to represent this esteemed Senior Vice President organization at all forums be it the Diplomatic Missions, the Government

40 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Annual Report 2018 - 19 41 FORMER SENIOR VICE PRESIDENTS

Mian M. Riaz Ehsan A. Karim Ejaz Ul Haq Mirza Ijaz Ahmad Dar 1991-1992 1992-1993 1993-1994 1994-1995

M. Hanif Khan Ch. Ghulam Mustafa Khawaja Zafar Hashmat Maqbool Ahmad Janjua 1995-1996 1996-1997 1998-1999 1999-2000

M. Zubair Agha Naveed Iqbal Sheikh M. Sadiq Goraya Zahid Latif Malik 2000-2001 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003-2004

42 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Ahsan Naeem Faisal Mahmood Zia Ullah Mirza Dr. Sarfraz Bashir 2004-2005 2005-2006 2007-2008 2006-2007/2009-2010

Ikram-ul-Haq Mian Muhammad Anwar Mir Alamgir Mayer Muhammad Sarfraz Butt 2012-2013 2013-2014 2014-2015 2015-2016

Adnan Arshad Sethi Abdul Waheed 2016-2017 2017-2018

Annual Report 2018 - 19 43 VICE PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry, to my fellow office bearers Khawaja Masud a representative body of over 12 thousand Akhtar (SI) President SCCI and Mr. Waqas members, has continued the legacy of Akram Awan, Senior Vice President, who reshaping, nurturing and promoting the cordially cooperated with me and helped me industry with modern principals of governance in realizing my vision that was to improve the and strived to move towards a pro-business quality of management eventually providing friendly environment for Export Industry of value addition into the services to our Sialkot. members through well organized, automatic structure and improving communication with Sialkot Chamber took initiatives and always Government Institutes. stood at the front lines to revisit and cultivate policies of the government into an export- Vocally, I am pleased to follow the path and oriented and economic development direction. vision of My President Khawaja Masud Akhtar Keeping Research and Development a (SI), and tried to add my efforts within my key of survival and vital for growth of the capacity in realizing his vision. I would like industry, during this tenure being an office to mention here that President SCCI carries bearer, I have ensured to spread the words a long term-vision for the Export Industry for importance of R&D through deliberate of Sialkot and has made serious efforts to efforts of organizing seminars and training actualize maximum of its vision during this sessions, as a key ingredient to the success tenure. I am sure that the learning experience and stressing on adoption of Lean & Quality and guide lines will stay with me throughout Control management into the production line my life. and core management as per the vision of my President. I am also thankful to the staff of Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry who I would like to express that it was an honor cooperated with me, given their best to make for me to hold the office as Vice president, each step fruitful and adding significance I feel contented that I have discharged my into the initiatives. Each department of this responsibilities with passion and dedication Chamber is oriented and harmonized with a that are in the best interests of the Sialkot vision to serve the industrial community. Industry. I am grateful to the Executive Committee who has shown full confidence Other than the business activities, owing in me and the decisions made by me as Vice my responsibility as an office bearer of this President of Sialkot Chamber of Commerce prestigious trade body, I also strived for and Industry. obligating to our Social Responsibility for society and for needy people of Sialkot City. As one of the office bearers, I have looked into I am hopeful that the journey of this Social the administrative matters and tried to serve welfare will continue with same spirit and the members of the Chamber with dignity and compassion in the coming year by succeeded utmost purity. I tried my best to further orient office bearers. a few key turning decisions that would bring harmony, efficiency and transparency into the As a Vice President, I have learned a lot from administrative system of this Institute. The the designation which was given to me by our transition of the overall administrative systems members, for which I am heartily grateful to into a computerized structure and introducing them. I would also like to extend my gratitude ERP into the financial management system to the honorable group leaders for believing including the transformation of Cash counter in my skills and capabilities. I can assure that system and other accounts ledgers of Sialkot Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry as Chamber, will further aid into efficiency. I an Institute would always stand for the rights believe that development of the Industry is of its members and the citizen of this great based on the core i.e. Sialkot Chamber of city. Commerce and Industry the Trade Body, for which this institute has been remodeled into AMER HAMID BHATTI a modern corporate structure. I am thankful Vice President

44 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Annual Report 2018 - 19 45 FORMER VICE PRESIDENTS

M. Amjad Khawaja M. Aslam Darr M. Ayoub Khan 1982-1985 1986-1987 1987-1989

Daud Ahmad Chattha Khawar A. Khawaja Ch. Nazir Hussain 1990-1992 1992-1993 1993-1994

Waheed Akhtar M. Ashraf Khokhar Khawaja Masud Akhtar 1994-1995 1995-1996 1997-1998

46 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry FORMER VICE PRESIDENTS

M. Yahya Bhatti Sh. Muhammad Yaqub Arshad Javed Sandal 1998-1999 1999-2000 2000-2001

Raja M. Ather Dar M. Ashraf Malik Maj. (R) Mansoor Ahmed 2001-2002 2002-2003 2003-2004

Shafiq-ur-Rehman Sheikh Ejaz Ahmed Soni Ch. Raza Munir 2004-2005 2005-2006 2006-2007

Annual Report 2018 - 19 47 FORMER VICE PRESIDENTS

Fazal Jilani Mir Farooq Meyer Pervaiz Ahmed Khan 2007-2008 2008-2009 2009-2010

Adnan Sarwar Kapur Qaiser Baig Rahat Chand 2010-2011 2010-2011 2011-2012

Zafar Iqbal Geoffrey M. Kashif Almas Khawar Hussain Spall 2014-2015 2012-2013 2013-2014

48 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry FORMER VICE PRESIDENTS

Malik Naseer Ahmed Syed Ahtasham Mazher Mian Imran Akbar 2014-2015 2015-2016 2016-2017

Abid A. Khawaja 2017-2018

Annual Report 2018 - 19 49 Visit of 38th Specialized Diplomatic Course from Foreign Service Academy

October 06, 2018

38th Specialized Diplomatic was earning foreign exchange project of AIRSIAL for providing Course from Foreign Service USD 2 Billion annually. The City quality air travel services to the Academy visited the Sialkot was producing many products community. He emphasized Chamber of Commerce & for global markets as well that the officers should play a Industry. Mr. Waqas Akram as for the top international significant role for enabling the Awan, Senior Vice President brands in various categories better business environment to SCCI welcomed the delegation (sports goods, sports wears, flourish economic activities, to from Foreign Service Academy leather goods, surgical ensure steady growth in private and members of Sialkot instruments, etc.), he added. sector investment and to attract Chamber. Senior Vice President He also told that Sialkot higher levels of foreign direct addressed the guests, Chamber was a representative investment (FDI). He stressed on appreciated the role of Foreign body and contributing to the maximum possible support from Services academy in capacity economic development of the Government Departments building and training of the the country by adopting best especially foreign diplomats officers. He encouraged all the practices compatible with the of Pakistan to overcome the officers that they should strive International Market. He briefed growing economic crisis and to to project a positive image of about the active role of Sialkot maintain international market Pakistan on all the diplomatic Chamber in completing different share. avenues. He told that Sialkot, an development projects on a export oriented city of Pakistan, self-help basis including the

50 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Mr. Shahbaz ( of Some of the participants engaging the youth to train them Delegation) thanked Sialkot discussed the role of and to overcome the scarcity of Chamber for hospitality and commercial sections for skilled labor. As far as products warm welcome on behalf of the enhancing trade, availability of are concerned, they told about Foreign Service Academy. He skilled labor and skill training the brands including top shared the dynamics of training through the vocational center, and field hockey brands belong and said that under-training the significance of branding, and to Sialkot like CA Sports, Malik officers visited different cities, SCCI’s links with government Sports, Grays of Cambridge, and chambers and industrial units departments as well as Dita Hockey, etc. for their exposure; so that, commercial sections abroad. they could serve the country Mrs. Nadia Qaiser, Executive well after their appointments SCCI members and Office Committee Member also in different departments. Bearers discussed the above appreciated the idea to He appreciated the dynamic cited matters in detail and take Trade Bodies on board business community and said that the Commercial for the training of foreign passion of Sialkot’s Industry. He Counsellors were appointed officers. She said that women requested that a questionnaire with the great responsibility entrepreneurs should also be should be prepared for the to work for the betterment invited to different programs of guidance of foreign missions, so of economy by expanding the Ministries and Foreign Affairs that Foreign Service Academy trade between Pakistan and so that they may interact and would circulate among them respective countries; they discuss problems at all forums. for developing module and also had a close liaison with Whereas, Mr. Amer Hamid preparation; and officers would private sectors of the respective Bhatti, Vice President SCCI be trained according to those Countries; hence, they should stressed that all foreign officers guidelines by the Chambers facilitate Business Community were the future of the country & Trade Bodies, therefore by arranging B2B meetings to and they should render their they may efficiently contribute promote exports of the Products services for the prestige and towards the economy of of Pakistan. He also shared betterment of the economy. Pakistan. the efforts of Sialkot Industry to promote skill training for

Annual Report 2018 - 19 51 Visit of 26th Mid-Career Management Course from NIM, Peshawar

October 10, 2018

26th Mid-Career Management Course from NIM Peshawar visited the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry. Mr. Waqas Akram Awan, Senior Vice President SCCI welcomed the delegation from National Institute of Management Peshawar and members of Sialkot Chamber. He addressed the audience and emphasized on the importance of advanced courses and training in management to train them for the higher levels of responsibilities; and hoping that the officers would was earning foreign exchange political instability on business put their best efforts in the of USD 2 Billion annually & International Trade, CSR in functioning of the Government through its exports. He also sports industry, skilled training Machinery and would serve for shared about the inheritance through vocational training the betterment of the masses of skilled craftsmanship in institutes, policy making by of the Country. He further the manufacturing of surgical the Government and its effects stressed that the Government instruments which were used by on business community etc. should take all necessary Medics, Surgeons, Beauticians, whereas, SCCI members measures for improving law and Dentists with complete elaborated about the points & order and security situation trust in all over the world. raised by the delegates in detail. to ensure growth in private He further briefed about all sector investment and to attract products and industrial sectors The head of Delegation higher levels of foreign direct of Sialkot. Furthermore, he addressed the audience investment. Public-Private explained about the active and thanked the Senior Cooperation was also important role of Sialkot Chamber of Vice President of SCCI for for business promotion and Commerce in completing warm welcome & hospitality. successful implementation of different development projects He acknowledged the social & economic development on a self-help basis and also industrialists of Sialkot as schemes. introduced the new project of the pride of Pakistan for their AIRSIAL to provide quality air contributions to the economic Furthermore, he shared about travel services to the people. prosperity of the Country. Sialkot City, export sectors and Social responsibilities of the industrial dynamics in detail. He Discussion between delegates business community and the told about the achievements of and SCCI members was held social welfare projects had Sialkot Industry as Sialkot-made on different concerns/matters done by the Sialkot Business products e.g. sports products related to Sialkot Industry Community were commendable were being used by the top and Exports Sectors. They and praiseworthy. He also international players as well as appreciated the Documentary expressed his gratitude on Sialkot was also producing for and contribution of Sialkot behalf of the National Institute top brands in Sports like , Business Community for of Management of Peshawar for Nike, , , MITRE, their effective role in City’s giving them the opportunity for , , etc. and this city Infrastructure Development. the useful interaction. They discussed the impact of

52 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Visit of Probationary Officers from Ministry of Commerce

October 12, 2018

Probationary Officers from so that they could render their Sialkot Industry had a potential the Ministry of Commerce services in the best interest of to further channelize & grow visited the Sialkot Chamber the country; as export sector of with the international market. of Commerce & Industry. Mr. Pakistan needed support from Furthermore, he told the Waqas Akram Awan, Senior the Government Departments to purpose of their visit to SCCI Vice President SCCI welcomed overcome the growing economic that probationary officers could Mr. Salman Warraich, Director crises. be aware of the major trade (Head of Delegation) and issues throughout the country. probationary officers from Mr. Salman Warraich, Head of Ministry of Commerce and the Delegation thanked the Senior Officers discussed about the members of Sialkot Chamber. Vice President, other office Sialkot Industrial sectors, their He addressed the audience and bearers and members for their issues, importance of skills & appreciated the significant role cooperation and hospitality. He technology, required assistance of the Ministry of Commerce appreciated the dynamics of from the Government Bodies for and Trade Development Sialkot Industry and expressed increasing trade, etc. whereas, Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) in his hope for the bright future the SCCI office bearers and promotion of Exports and Trade of Sialkot. He acknowledged member responded to their of Pakistan. He emphasized that the projects done by the Sialkot questions. Mian Naeem Javed, Probationary Officer must have Chamber of Commerce for the Former President SCCI also thorough information about development and prosperity of welcomed the guests and trade & the industry of Pakistan the City and he claimed that emphasized the requirement of

Annual Report 2018 - 19 53 Mr. Waqas Akram Awan, Senior Vice President also discussed the concerns of the industry and explained the importance of instructive linkages between the Business Community and Government Departments. He also elaborated the effective liaison of Trade Bodies with the Ministry of Commerce for communicating the ‘industrialization’ to increase scarcity of skilled labor in concerns/issues of the the trade. He highlighted Sialkot Industry; he stressed the industry to the Ministry for the the requirement & need of issues in Vocational Education better solution. He encouraged new industrial departments/ and said that skilled based the delegation to learn about sectors and stressed that the Geographical Zoning was the dynamics of the country’s complete liaison between also essential. Whereas Mr. industry, local & international Government Bodies and Muhammad Sarwar, Chairman trade and other opportunities Business Community must be Pakistan Gloves Association to raise the economy up to a focused on trade enhancement. discussed the various concerns/ certain height. He thanked the Furthermore, he explained the issues faced by the Industry. delegation for their visit and significance and increasing urged them to serve the country with their best efforts.

54 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Visit of His Excellency Mr. Jean-Francois Cautain Ambassador of the European Union to Pakistan

October 15, 2018

H.E. Mr. Jean-Francois in diversity”, to work for the to the EU increased from 4.53 CAUTAIN, Ambassador of the common goals. The relationship billion (in 2013) to 6.69 billion European Union to Pakistan between the EU and the Islamic (in 2017) with a cumulative visited the Sialkot Chamber Republic of Pakistan had grown growth of a staggering 47.39% of Commerce and Industry. in recent years in the fields in 4 years. President SCCI Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI), of politics and development. told that Pakistan was the President SCCI welcomed He lauded the EU for their 42nd largest Trading partner the distinguished guests and cooperation with Pakistan in the of the EU and it was proud to members of this Chamber. fields of trade, humanitarian share that the Sialkot Industry He mentioned that Pakistan assistance, security, counter- had also benefitted from the re-affirmed its relations with terrorism, energy, environment, GSP+ scheme with some of the European Union as most health, , migration and worthy members reported to important based on mutual climate change. have increased their individual cooperation, trust, shared exports over 50 to 70%. The values of democracy, respect President SCCI told that EU GSP+ status was also being for human rights & cultural was one of Pakistan’s largest utilized to the maximum and economic liberalism. trading partners and one of the through the Registered He appreciated the fact that biggest markets for Pakistani Exporter System (REX System) European Union was a unique exports with total EU-Pakistan launched by EU in 2017 which economic and political union trade reaching €12.84 billion had greatly facilitated the which had delivered more than in 2017; he thanked the EU for business community in terms half a century of peace, stability, extending the GSP+ status to of quick documentation. prosperity, helpful in raising the Pakistan. Due to that support, Pakistan’s exports to the EU living standards of EU citizens more than 78% of Pakistan’s were dominated by and citizens of the other parts exports were entering the EU and as well as leather of the world. This signified how at most concessional rates. He products while Pakistan’s Europeans have come together said after awarding of GSP+ imports from the EU mainly under the motto of “United Status, Exports from Pakistan comprised with mechanical &

Annual Report 2018 - 19 55 electrical machinery, chemical and pharmaceutical products. He requested to discuss the way forward that how the maximum potential could be achieved and how the trade & business linkages could be enhanced through mutual efforts.

H.E. Mr. Jean-Francois CAUTAIN Ambassador of the European Union to Pakistan thanked the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry and its members for their hospitality. He said that the European GSP Plus. to resolve their issues and Union was a geopolitical entity The honorable guest save its industry & exports. covering a large portion of also mentioned that EU’s Sialkot Chamber had a strong the European continent; was Government expected Pakistan image and would try to raise founded upon numerous treaties to focus on all conventions for its voice to communicate and had undergone expansions more trade. EU’s Government the genuine concerns to the that have taken it from 6 encouraged the business new Government; as the new member states to 28, a majority community of Pakistan to boost Government had a positive of the states in Europe. He up the trade ties between both vision to enhance trade and discussed the relations between the countries. developed economy. He assured EU & Pakistan since last five that the Sialkot Chamber and years (from 2012 -17) and Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI), business community was ready expressed his hope that it would President SCCI also told to cooperate with the EU for try to enhance bilateral relations that Sialkot had a different resolving the issues related in shape of political, trade and approach towards its issues and to the implementation of GSP investments linkages by the Sialkot Business community Conventions and to increase new Government through the was always ready to work for trade. Whereas, Mr. Adnan better strategies. While talking increasing trade as well as for Arshad Sethi, Mr. Mohsan Gull, about the implementation of social & welfare cause. Sialkot Ms. Nadia Qaiser and other GSP plus Status, he emphasized Business Community had members discussed BREXIT that Pakistan should fulfill the developed road infrastructure as a crucial issue, environment 27 conventions (Labor Right, by a project “City Package” and and culture of the EU market Human Right etc.) in order to established its own Dry port and further opportunities for gain more benefits from the and Private Airport as well; Pakistani Industry in Europe. the city had loads of potential

56 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Visit of MAJ GEN (R) ASHIMIYU A. OLANIYI, OON, MNI, High Commissioner of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to Pakistan

October 17, 2018

H.E. MAJ GEN (R) ASHIMIYU sector and stock exchange. President SCCI requested His A. OLANIYI, OON, MNI, High The business community of Excellency for sharing data Commissioner of the Federal Pakistan hoped that the High of tariff and customs duties Republic of Nigeria to Pakistan Commission of Nigeria would in Nigeria on products like visited the Sialkot Chamber of facilitate to enter into the Surgical Instruments, Sports Commerce & Industry. Khawaja Nigerian Markets. He mentioned Goods, Sports Wear, Leather Masud Akhtar (SI), President that the total trade volume Products, Gloves, and Textile SCCI welcomed the guests between the two countries along with the Investment and said that Nigeria was an was limited to around USD 300 Policy of Nigeria in order for emerging economic power (M) with the the business community of in the African Continent and favoring Nigeria as per sources Sialkot to study in detail and was the important country for like Ministry of Commerce, allow them to plan investment Pakistan especially relating to Pakistan and Trade Map which in Joint Ventures and other trade. Nigeria was classified didn’t reflect the true potential opportunities for increasing as a mixed economy and that lies between the two trade relations with Nigeria. emerging market, and had countries. He suggested that Nigerian market had enormous already reached middle-income an active engagements of the demand for the items produced status country according to the Nigerian & Pakistani Chambers in Sialkot but the goods are with its abundant and other trade bodies should supplied through other sources supply of natural resources be ensured, which could act as resulting in higher prices especially oil resources, well- a resource base for exchanging and delivery time. Therefore, developed financial, legal, information. he requested His Excellency communications, transport to motivate the business

Annual Report 2018 - 19 57 community of Nigeria to • All business enterprises and Commercialization buy directly from Sialkot. He could be registered with Decree, Protection of said that there was a lack of the Registrar-General Industrial Investment proper information regarding of the Corporate Affairs and International Trade what type of technologies, Commission (Registrar Business. products and Industry in of Companies); and told Nigeria; he requested that High about its online registration He further told that Nigeria was Commission would provide process a country endowed with arable such information to increase land and abundant natural collaboration between both the • Shared the online Tax resources. The investors were countries. relaxation for investors and free to bring their currency online Tax payment system. as an investment to Nigeria Mr. MAJ GEN (R) ASHIMIYU A. through a designated “Central OLANIYI, High Commissioner of • The agricultural potential Bank of Nigeria”, and the Nigeria to Pakistan thanked the of Nigeria was barely bank issued the Certificate Sialkot Chamber & its members being tapped and this of Capital against the money for their warm welcome and explains the inability of (investment); he also told about appreciated the City Sialkot as the country to meet the the sector-specific incentives a renowned Industrial Hub, its ever-increasing demand for the foreign investors in dynamics, Industrial Sectors for agricultural produce. agriculture, industry and other and the progressive people. He Although the agricultural fields. He shared the status of appreciated the social & welfare sector remains a dominant Nigeria in its different Industry projects of Sialkot Chamber and employer of labor, serious e.g. production, lauded the Football Industry for investment was needed sector, etc. and appreciated the providing first class footballs across the board to enhance Textile Sector of Pakistan as the to all over the world e.g. production and increase the largest and advanced sector. Tango, Brazuca and Telstar. contribution of the sector to He requested that Pakistan’s He shared some similarities GDP. expertise in the said sector between Nigeria and Pakistan would welcome to Nigeria. in terms of their demographics, • Nigeria would welcome He said that Nigeria had the economic indicators (GDP, Joint Venture & Investment textile sector but not much Per Capita Income, and PPP, Opportunities in the advanced. He encouraged the etc.), international statuses Transportation Sector. efforts would make for joining according to the world ranking, the resources & expertise in the foreign reserves, FDI and • As part of the efforts textile sector. trade figures etc. Pakistan’s to provide an enabling top economic and industrial environment that was High Commissioner told about sectors as well as he also told conducive to the growth and the abundant mineral resources about the Nigerian sectors development of industries, in Nigeria and encouraged including agriculture (cocoa, an inflow of Foreign Direct that Pakistan could invest in peanuts, , palm oil, corn, Investment (FDI), shield mining side as well with its , sorghum, millet, cassava, existing investments from expertise to join hands with yams, rubber etc.) minerals unfair competition, and Nigeria. “people-to-people (natural gas, , tin, stimulate the expansion linkages” were necessary to ore, , , niobium, of domestic production bring the business community lead, zinc, ) and capacity; the Federal closer; government from both industries (crude oil, coal, tin, Government of Nigeria sides should play their roles the columbine; rubber products, had developed a package as a facilitator. Furthermore, wood; hides and , of incentives for various there were two bilateral trade textiles, cement, and other sectors of the economy agreements between both the construction materials, food e.g. Nigerian Investment countries were in the process, products, footwear, chemicals, Promotion Decree, and he encouraged that both , printing, ceramics, Foreign Exchange Decree, sides should make efforts for steel). He told about some of Securities and Exchange enhancing the bilateral trade the incentives, The Nigerian Commission Act, Exchange and to strengthen the mutual Government was offering to the Control Regulations, ties. potential industries to attract The Nigerian Financial foreign direct investment; System, Privatization

58 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Visit of Major General Muhammad Zafar Iqbal GOC 15 Div & Garrison Commander Sialkot

October 29, 2018

Mr. Muhammad Zafar Iqbal, Major General, GOC 15 Div Sialkot and Brig. Ayyaz Masood Khan, Station Commander visited the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry. Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI), President SCCI warmly welcomed the distinguished guests and members of the Chamber. President SCCI admired the services of as they were doing their exemplary job against any internal problem or regularly so that important SCCI regarding all the concerns. foreign aggression to uphold matters would discuss regularly. Sheikh Zahid Hameed, sovereignty and honor of the Chairman SCCI’s Departmental country. He appreciated the Major General Muhammad Committee on Garrison HQ developments of new road Zafar Iqbal, GOC 15 Div & and Cantonment Board Affairs infrastructure, construction of Garrison Commander Sialkot thanked the guest for formation new shopping mall in Sialkot Garrison thanked Khawaja of the joint Committee on Cantt. and also appriciated the Masud Akhtar (SI), President Station Headquarter and Sialkot various counteractive steps for SCCI for such a warm welcome Chamber for collaborating beautification of Cantonment and said that he would form a on important concerns. He Areas of the City. Sialkot Joint Committee for redressal of acknowledged the efforts of Chamber had also been actively all above said issues mentioned Former Garrison Commander participated & contributed by President SCCI. He said that Major General (R) Zahid in different social & welfare Sialkot Business Community Hussain. Mrs. Nuzhat Khawar, projects. Sialkot was facing was also a major pillar of Dr. Khurram Anwar Khawaja, some problems which were economy and appreciated the Dr. Mariam Nouman, Mr. Khalid needed to be addressed on dynamics of Sialkot Industry. Mahmood and other members immediate basis; He requested He shared about the army’s appreciated the guests and to make GLR renewal procedure efforts for the safety & security thanked them for visiting the convenient for which MEO of the country as well as the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce Officer should be available at internal issues. He told about to discuss the matters of Sialkot Office. He discussed the the launching campaign for tree maintenance & development of matter related to Membership plantation and encouraged the the city; it was requested that Cards of Chavinda Ground and members for participation to the campaign for tree plantation issuance of NOC for foreign make healthy environment. He should be prioritize and planned travelers. He also requested to also shared about the ongoing on time. Pending construction of extend permission for initiation construction of sewerage Masjid of officer colony was also of membership cards facility system and after completion brought into the notice of GOC at Club. He shared some of that project; environment 15 Div. In the end, President suggestions regarding the of Sialkot Cantt would further hoped that this meeting would maintenance of roads and some be cleaner and healther. bring most fruitful results in new projects. He requested Furthermore, he assured to strengthening the relationships that Cantonment Board Officer work on the discussed matters between Cantonment Board and should visit the Sialkot Chamber and positive collaboration with Sialkot Chamber.

Annual Report 2018 - 19 59 Visit of Maj. Gen. (R) Zahid Mubashir Khan Ambassador Designate to Ukraine

November 08, 2018

Maj. Gen. (R) Zahid Mubashir Khan, Ambassador Designate to Ukraine visited the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry on November 08, 2018. Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI), President Sialkot Chamber welcomed the Ambassador and told that Sialkot was the only export-oriented & industrial city of Pakistan that was producing for global markets including top brands in various categories/products. He requested Maj. Gen. (R) Zahid Vice President SCCI suggested Pakistan imported Battle Tanks Mubashir Khan to share the that a Trade delegation should from Ukraine; he also said list of Potential exhibitions, so also be organized in order to that Ukraine was a beautiful that the information would be enhance the trade between Country and people went there circulated among the related the two countries. He said that for holidays. H.E. shared that members of SCCI. He also Foreign offices should work his mission was based on a requested to develop linkages as facilitators and identify the single point agenda, ‘to boost with the marketing companies right areas to be tapped, provide the exports and provide better in Ukraine, so that the products necessary assistance to the Economic condition to the produced by Sialkot could exporters in participating in the Country’. He assured his full be marketed through proper relevant trade fairs & exhibitions cooperation and facilitation channel. He further added held internationally and put in all aspects to Sialkot that industry should follow the in sincere efforts to make the Industry for the promotion example of China to enhance exhibitions successful. He of Exports. He informed that the trade; he mentioned the requested the Ambassador to Gems, Potatoes, Rice, Leather, importance of establishing share the List of Exhibitions of Surgical Instruments, Beauty in exported Ukraine with Sialkot Chamber Instruments and Sports countries to ensure timely and also highlighted the point gears were in great demand and easy delivery of goods. He that Ukraine was importing at in Ukrainian Market. He concluded with the thought high prices from Europe and emphasized that the quality that Pakistani Exporters should being a cheaper industry, there of the product should not be approach Marketing Companies was a great opportunity for compromised, he stressed in Ukraine and setup their Sialkot. that Ukraine was an industrial marketing offices there to estate of Russia and it would create linkages and to enhance H.E. Maj. Gen. (R) Zahid be beneficial for Pakistan to trade with them. Mubashir Khan, Ambassador start long term relations with designate to Ukraine thanked this unexplored market. He Mr. Amer Hamid Bhatti, Vice Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI) also encouraged the concept of President SCCI pointed out (President), other office bearers trade delegations and said that the problems in Banking and all the participants of the the exchange of delegations Channels of Ukraine. Mr. meeting. H.E. endorsed the from both countries should be Waqas Akram Awan, Senior points mentioned by the office planned in the near future. bearers of SCCI and said that

60 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Visit of Mr. Roger C. Claar Mayor Bolingbrook-USA

November 15, 2018

Mr. Roger C. Claar, Mayor to be linked with the people city, business and people. He Bolingbrook-USA visited the of Bolingbrook through the mentioned that Sialkot with its Sialkot Chamber of Commerce historic Sister City Agreement entrepreneurial background had & Industry. Khawaja Masud signed in 2016 aimed at the potential and determination Akhtar (SI), President welcomed promoting cultural exchanges, to adapt the new technologies, the honorable guest Mr. Roger collaboration and combined techniques and advancements C. Claar, Mayor of Bolingbrook, growth. He extended his of top level for which we expect distinguished delegates from heartiest gratitude to the Mayor cooperation and support of United States and members for being the friend of Pakistan USA. He suggested the active of the Chamber. He expressed and for celebrating “Pakistan’s engagements of business his gratitude to Mr. Claar for Independence Day” for the last communities from both visiting the Sialkot Chamber 25 years. He said that both sides, through Chambers of to exchange his views with the cities besides having talented Commerce in both cities which members on issues of mutual population shared several could act as resource base for interest, which surely would commonalities like uniform exchanging information and help in opening up new avenues vision of growth, economic would serve to promote trade of cooperation between the development and sustainable and would translate into long- people of two Sister Cities infrastructure for their residents term and promising relations of ‘Sialkot and Bolingbrook’ etc. He emphasized that Sialkot and Bolingbrook. especially promotion of trade. Pakistan should learn from The President highlighted the experience of Bolingbrook- Mr. Roger C. Claar, Mayor that it was a matter of great USA to implement systems Bolingbrook-USA thanked honor for the citizens of Sialkot and growth vision to uplift the the Sialkot Chamber and

Annual Report 2018 - 19 61 business community for their in Bolingbrook as lots of as an Ambassador to enhance hospitality. He appreciated the families were living there, all bilateral linkages. Appreciated entrepreneurial mindset and of them were very important the idea to form a delegation, export/industrial setup of the to him; furthermore, he told he assured that he would work city, as well as acknowledged about the facilities provided on it and a delegation from the history and dynamics of to the Pakistani community in Sialkot would visit USA, as USA Sialkot as a city of progressive Bolingbrook. He appreciated was a biggest and attractive people. He said that the role of Chamber and said market for our products. Mr. Bolingbrook was a small town that Chambers of both the Waqas Akram Awan, Senior but had huge significance in countries should collaborate in Vice President thanked the USA. He told about Bolingbrook order to enhance the linkages honorable guests and said as a southwest suburb of of business community/private that such friendly relationship Chicago with the population of sector. He appreciated the between both the cities was 76,000 people and had large Mayor of Sialkot and suggested heartening and surely would distribution industrial base of to form a delegation from strengthen the ties between Bolingbrook. He said that the Sialkot Industry to visit USA. Pakistan & USA. Exchange size and location of the said He expressed his warmth for of delegations from both industrial base showed the Sialkot, Pakistan and said that sides would prove significant opportunities for Individuals he would work on the image to provoke people to people and companies etc. to come building of Pakistan as a interaction. He said that SCCI and grow their business. He representative or Ambassador and Sialkot City would always shared his positive experience in USA. welcome the guests from regarding interaction with Bolingbrook in future as well to Pakistani people and praised Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI), make this tie more strong and their hospitality and courtesy. President SCCI thanked the Mr. friendly. He told about Pakistan’s Roger C. Claar for his remarks Independence Day Celebrations as he was working for Pakistan

62 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Visit of Delegation of Junior Foreign Trainee Diplomats from Foreign Service Academy, Islamabad

November 19, 2018

A delegation of Junior Foreign Therefore, he stressed that the from other channels but it Trainee Diplomats from the Civil honorable guests should further should be focused to increase Service Academy, Islamabad try to strengthen the business the direct trade of those visited the Sialkot Chamber linkages for enhancing trade countries with Sialkot. Active of Commerce & Industry. Mr. because there was a huge scope engagements of the Chambers Waqas Akram Awan, Senior of joint ventures and business of Commerce should be focused Vice President welcomed the cooperation with them. to exchange information and junior foreign trainee diplomats trade delegations; to promote from 22 friendly countries at Mr. Waqas Akram Awan bilateral trade and linkages SCCI and hoped that the visit shared with the guests that between the different countries. of diplomats would surely Sialkot Industry was greatly Furthermore, he told that the help to open new avenues of contributing in the economic Sialkot Chamber of Commerce economic and trade cooperation development of the country was a representative body of with respective 22 countries. by earning foreign exchange the private sector. He briefed Pakistan had always been eager of US $ 2.5 Billion annually about the active role of Sialkot to develop strong bilateral through its exports. While Chamber of Commerce in relations with all the countries, discussing the export-oriented completing many development the SVP added. He emphasized industrial segments of Sialkot, projects on self-help basis and that despite having immense he said that many countries also introduced a new project prospects of growth, the were importing Made-In- of ‘AIRSIAL’. He expressed hope trade volume was below par. Sialkot products indirectly that Diplomats would promote

Annual Report 2018 - 19 63 also appreciated the Sialkot Chamber for its active role as an apex body was not only contributing to the country’s economy but also actively engaged to promote the social sector development projects. He praised the achievements in remarkable social & welfare projects of Sialkot Industry and said that the young diplomats would share the success story of Sialkot in their respective countries for positive image building as well as for strengthening the collaboration better understanding between Service Academy for a warm between Sialkot Chamber and business communities for welcome at Sialkot Chamber Foreign Service Academy. developing economic relations of Commerce and Industry. with their countries. He shared his experience of Delegates from , meeting with the delegation of Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Djibouti, DG, Foreign Service Academy Sialkot Industry and admired Liberia and other countries addressed the audience that industrialist of Sialkot appreciated the Sialkot Industry and thanked the Senior Vice were dedicated & well-aware and its success stories in President on behalf of Foreign about the current affairs. He business & social side.

64 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Session on The Progress of Turkish Economy & Social Change in Turkey & Islam in Modern Turkey

November 19, 2018

The Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry arranged a session on “Progress of Turkish Economy and Social Change in Turkey and Islam in Modern Turkey” at SCCI. Turkish Scholars; Dr. Hakan Gulerce (Assistant Professor at Department of Sociology, Harran University, Turkey), Ismail Latif HACINEBIOGLU (Professor Doctor, Head of Philosophy Department, University) and Dr. Ahmet Yildiz (Legislative Expert in Human Rights Inquiry Committee of the Grand community in Social Sector of Understanding” between National Assembly of Turkey) Development and Welfare of Sialkot Chamber of Commerce were invited to the Sialkot the people. He mentioned & Industry and ANLIURFA Chamber to enlighten the said the gigantic projects e.g. TEKNOKENT, a Technology subject. Khawaja Masud Akhtar Sialkot International Airport, Development Zone established (SI), President SCCI welcomed Sialkot Dryport Trust, Sialkot under Harran University and the honorable guests, and City Development Program, Ministry of Science, Industry acknowledged “Turkey as a Role Sialkot Export Processing and Technology would be signed Model” for the other countries, Zone, Sialkot Business & at the end of the seminar. Turkey had emerged as a leader Commerce Centre, Sialkot The MOU would allow Joint of the Islamic Brotherhood in Tannery Zone and AIRSIAL etc. Research of Industrial Projects past few decades with a strong were in the portfolio of SCCI’s of the Sialkot’s Industry and economy, a well-developed achievements. sharing of knowledge of human resource and most Turkey’s Technological Advances of all presenting the true The President briefed that with the Manufacturers of picture of Islam. He also gave Seerat Study Centre was Sialkot. an introduction of SCCI as a also a project of Faith and representative body of Sialkot Spiritual realization; The Sialkot Dr. Ahmet Yildiz, Legislative was greatly contributing in the Chamber had pride in this Expert in Human Rights Inquiry economic uplift. Sialkot Industry project as it was serving as a Committee of the Grand was actively pursuing the global knowledge hub of Islam and National Assembly of Turkey economic agenda by adopting teachings of Prophet (S.A.W). thanked the Sialkot Chamber the best practices compatible The guests would also be and explained about the social with the International standards. pleased to note that a Research & economic transformation He shared about the city, Department at the Seerat Study of Turkey in the last 15 years. had developed SME culture Center had been developed for He briefed about the rational highly conducive to business the latest Researches on Islam. State reforms were planned collaborations and joint He appreciated Dr. Shumaila and implemented on “Human ventures in various industries Majeed, Director of the project Resource & Economic in Sialkot; He shared the to organize the seminar. He also Resources” as these were exceptional work of the business shared that a “Memorandum the most crucial part of the

Annual Report 2018 - 19 65 was one of the essential concept related to the concept of Rizq and Allah Subhan’wa Tallah was the “Razzaq”. He also said that in the modern economy, there were loads of materialism and selfishness to earn more & more, but Islam instructed the followers to share and to sacrifice for others. He also explained the attributes of Allah that reflected in His creature make them valuable and different from each other. He told that a man had worth in the eyes of Allah and society by his virtues that highlighted the characteristics of a person. He told about the very important Quranic perspective and features of country’s development. He shared about the dark period Industry/business was “Nazar further told that Turkey had also of Turkish history and shared (Vision) and Niyat (intention)” worked parallel on the political another idea/philosophy of that started every process, and stability as it was necessary Said Nursi that; there were six he shared that “production” to strengthen the judiciary sicknesses in a human which was the profession of Sialkot system. He shared the tools should be identified and cured Industry but it contained the that had been adopted and timely for his/her spiritual attribute of Allah as “Khaaliq”; priorities of the Government growth e.g. hopelessness, therefore, the products should e.g. strong legal infrastructure, death of truthfulness, love also the reflection of the privatization of institutes to of heatedness, not knowing producer. While discussing the boost up the performance, one another, despotism and subject, he said that most of attracting foreign direct individuality (selfishness). He the economies had invested investment and political stability also shared the medication of in infrastructure (the material etc. to facilitate the masses. these six sicknesses from the things) but according to the He further shared the efforts pharmacy of Quran in details Quran “the best investment is & relations of Turkey with the e.g. Quran taught to have hope the investment on men”. He other countries for resource & & believe on Allah, truthfulness elaborated the concept of Niyat, infrastructure development. & honesty, love, sacrifice, Qana’at, Israaf, Eq-te’saad and brotherhood, Mushawarat & business ethics etc. in detail Dr. Hakan Gulerce, Assistant help each other etc. He said with the examples of Quranic Professor at Department of that these sicknesses should verses. He ended his speech Sociology, Harran University, be identified and cured with the with the words that emphasized Turkey thanked the Chamber for solutions described by the Holy that everyone should recognize its remarkable hospitality. He Quran so that every individual the real worth of life and this said that the balance between should learn and practice Quran Duniya and to make a balance materialism and Islam should to form a peaceful society. with our dealings. be focused on developing a stable and fair economy. Ismail Latif HACINEBIOGLU Dr. Hakan elaborated the details He discussed the ideas of (Professor Doctor, Head of of Harran University, Turkey Bediüzzaman Said Nursi Philosophy Department, and its Research Centre. After (1876-1960), a great Turkish Istanbul University thanked for completing the discussion, (Islamic) Philosopher regarding inviting them to Pakistan and a ceremony was held to ignorance, poverty and conflict also shared the ideas of Said sign the Memorandum of were three enemies of all; and Nursi regarding “Eq-te’saad Understanding (MOU) between there were three weapons to & Shukar”. He mentioned that ANLIURFA TEKNOKENT and fight against these enemies e.g. “Industry was a weapon against Sialkot Chamber for further Education, establishment of poverty”, but on the other side collaboration. Industry and Brotherhood. He Quran Taught that Eq-te’saad

66 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Visit of Mr. David Preston Acting Deputy High Commissioner Australia

December 01, 2018

Mr. David Preston, Acting empowerment specifically in enhance trade relationship Deputy High Commissioner rural areas. Women Resource of Pakistan & Australia. He Australia, MDF Team visited the Center (WRC) of SCCI was assured that he would support Sialkot Chamber of Commerce also engaged in arranging the planned delegation of SCCI & Industry. Mr. Waqas Akram different informative seminars/ by providing contacts of Women Awan, Senior Vice President sessions related for women Entrepreneur Network (WENET) welcomed the honorable guests entrepreneurs and recently they in Turkey; he also advised and the members of Sialkot had planned a women specific to conduct B2B meetings, Chamber. He described the delegation to Turkey as well. Symposium and delegations vibrant & dynamic nature of with Australian Business Sialkot Industry and its exports Mr. David Preston, Acting Sectors to expand the bilateral share in country’s economy. He Deputy High Commissioner trade of both the countries. highlighted the remarkable role Australia thanked the Office He endorsed that Sialkot City of Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI) Bearers of Sialkot Chamber had a fertile land and would (President SCCI) in encouraging and all other members for be considered for the future “Women Empowerment” in their hospitality. He described projects of MDF. Mr. Abdullah Sialkot Industry by hiring more the bilateral trade between Aziz Khan (Coordinator MDF) than 900 females in his factory; Australia & Pakistan and Ms. thanked for the hospitality and he further shared about the Margerat Adamson, Australian explained the Pilot Project of facilities and environment High Commissioner to Pakistan, MDF with M/s Servis Shoes provided to the workers by had been keenly involved in which was related to expand M/S Forward Sports. He activities with other Chambers the number of units in order to also mentioned the existing of Pakistan to enhance the increase quality of input and SCCI project named Women trade. He suggested making women workforce involvement. Investment Network of Dairy good connections with He elaborated that the vision Sector (WINDS) in collaboration Australian Trade Representative of MDF was to provide support with USAID related to women in Islamabad in order to to develop economy and they

Annual Report 2018 - 19 67 specialized products of Sialkot Industry for finding relevant & interested business partners in Australia to make this delegation focused.

Dr. Maryam Nouman, Chairperson Women Entrepreneur Committee thanked the guests and mentioned that the number of Women Entrepreneurs were less as compared to Women Workforce. She also appreciated the effort of MDF to empower women workforce. She recommended initiating different projects in Sialkot like Day Care Centers & Training Centers particularly for were focusing the betterment of total population of women in secretarial female workforce. women workforce. Pakistan was 51% but their She shared about the ratio of role in industrial sector as educated females in the city Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI), workforce was only 0.5% which but they had difficulties to find President SCCI welcomed Mr. was alarming. He stressed appropriate jobs. She introduced David Preston & MDF Team that comfortable and safe the “Khud Kifalat Rozgar Trust” and suggested to identify environment should be provided initiated by the Sialkot Chamber the real problems faced to women entrepreneurs or for providing interest free loans by the women workforce workforce. He stressed to to the small scale businesses in industrial sector before create friendly environment for whereas, there were very few arranging seminars/sessions female workers to give them number of women approached etc. He stated that there confidence and to train them; to KKRT for taking loans. The was a need to form a viable so that they could contribute aspects of collaborating and strategy to encourage women for their families as well as working for the betterment were empowerment in industrial for the country’s economy. He discussed and shared by both sector for enabling them to suggested providing Australian the organizations. work for their betterment. The Commissioner with the list of

68 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Visit of Mr. Abdul Razak Dawood Advisor to Prime Minister on Commerce, Textile, Industry & Production and Investment

December 01, 2018

Mr. Abdul Razak Dawood, the to the Export Sector of Pakistan. Availing the Presence of Mr. Advisor to Prime Minister He also briefed regarding Abdul Razak Dawood, The on Commerce & Textile the Industrial dynamism of President SCCI requested the visited the Sialkot Chamber Sialkot and history of industrial kind consideration of Advisor of Commerce & Industry on development. Sialkot was the on following key points for December 02, 2018. Khawaja hub of largest cluster of export resolution: Masud Akhtar (SI), President oriented cottage industry in warmly welcomed the guest Pakistan and was contributing • It was proposed that and Members. The President to the economy of Pakistan Warehousing Facilities in was of the view that with by earning precious foreign EPZs should be allowed new Government in place, exchange despite all odds, Mr. wherein commercial the business community was Masud added. The President importers would import expecting positive changes in emphasized on the fact that duty free goods/all kinds the system and relief through Sialkot being only 0.5% of the of raw materials and sell resolution of key issues. total population was one of the them to SME exporters Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI) biggest contributors to National under SRO 492, 326, 327, assured the Advisor to Prime Exchequer with zero tax defaults 450 or Export Oriented Units Minister of full support from from the business community (EOU). Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and contribution around 10% of & Industry in line with the country’s exports. • Sialkot Chamber was resolution of issues pertaining planning to establish a

Annual Report 2018 - 19 69 Special Economic Zone • The President requested Dawood for facilitation from in the private sector; he Mr. Abdul Razak Dawood the Government in shape of requested for facilitation in to direct the State Bank matching grant on 1:1 basis. the project by providing 50% of Pakistan for re- of the project cost from EDF. consideration the decision • Removal of regulatory of withdrawal and that and anti-dumping duty on • He highlighted some critical limit of Advance Payment polyester yarn. issues in Export Processing specifically on import of Zone Authority like absence accessories and material Mr. Abdul Razak Dawood, of Chairman for last 2.5 meant for re-exports for Advisor to Prime Minister on years and mentioned that the value added sectors of Commerce, Textile, Industries only 01 meeting had been Sialkot be allowed. & Production and Investment

conducted in the last 3 • The President stressed expressed his gratitude to the years. In this regard, he that the Temporary Imports members of Sialkot Chamber requested the Advisor to meant for Re-Export and assured the business PM for a special meeting purposes be exempted community that he was there in on EPZA and its issues in from Punjab & Islamabad as the representative Islamabad. Infrastructure Development of the exporters of Sialkot. Cess. He recalled his last visit to • In order to facilitate the the city was when the project business community of • Clearance of custom duty of Airport had been initiated Pakistan particularly the drawback, sales tax refunds and said that he would ensure export sector, the President and DLTL claims through every possible support from SCCI suggested that a PRC. EDF in line with the projects One Window Facility/ for the betterment of Export Operations be established • Exemption of samples from Sector of Sialkot. The Advisor wherein levies and taxes any sort of duties/taxes/ to Prime Minister informed the for Social Security, EOBI levies. house regarding the 100 Day and Worker Welfare fund performance of the Government be deducted at source • Trade Bodies of Sialkot and shared the important from the Exporters to had agreed to revive the points and highlighted the main eliminate the cumbersome “Sialkot City Development focus of Federal Government. documentation processes. Package Program” and he Regarding the points raised requested Mr. Abdul Razak by President SCCI, following

70 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry points were noted from address also on Import Substitution; and shared that the issue would of Mr. Abdul Razak Dawood whereas, the Prime Minister had be resolved after having another said that proposal of Sialkot a special focus on enhancing meeting of the Stakeholders. Special Economic Zone would ranks in Ease of Doing Business He further said that the industry be his number one priority and and to bring Pakistan within would need to work on branding requested the President SCCI top 100. In this regard, he and exploring new markets like to form a Committee and all said that the Government was Africa and Latin America. He the matters would be finalized working on One Window Facility also stressed for the need of in Ministry of Commerce with and formulation of simple Reverse Engineering to diversify Board of Investment. He had mechanism for taxation. He the export basket of Pakistan. also initiated the process also expressed his will to revise He expressed his resolve of formulation of Industrial the Bonded and to work with the business Policy with Salient Features DTRE rules considering their community to promote an like identification of Strategic complicated procedures and enabling environment mutually Sectors, Diversification into requested the SCCI to bring beneficial for the Industrialists. new Product Lines (Engineering in a working paper regarding Products, Chemicals, Plastic the changes they required. In the end, Khawaja Masud Based products etc.). The Furthermore, Government was Akhtar (SI), President Sialkot Advisor, sharing his views, also focusing on clearance of Chamber thanked Mr. Abdul said that relying on Textiles Refunds and would soon be Razak Dawood, Advisor to Prime only would not take Pakistan’s releasing the pending amounts Minister of Commerce, Textile, exports to desired targets. He as well as the Regulatory Duty Industries & Production and stressed that the Industry of on Polyester Yarn would also be Investment for his kind views Pakistan needed to enter into after calling out all stakeholders and resolve for promotion new product lines and assured for meeting. Regarding the of Exports. Mr. Abdul Razak that Government would extend issue of USD 10,000 Advance Dawood thanked all the every possible facility. Limit on Imports of Accessories members of Sialkot Chamber and Raw Material, the Mr. Abdul and assured that he would not While discussing the points, Razak Dawood said that he had let them down. he informed that his focus was discussed the matter with SBP

Annual Report 2018 - 19 71 Visit of H.E. Mr. Vladimir Berezyuk Deputy Chief of the Mission of The Russian Federation

December 04, 2018

H.E. Mr. Vladimir Berezyuk, potential to provide market Surgical Instruments, Work Deputy Chief of Mission of the for its defense supplies and Wear & Gloves, and Sports Russian Federation visited the investment in the energy and Goods and Apparel to Russia Sialkot Chamber of Commerce infrastructure sectors. People should be ensured. A significant & Industry. Mr. Waqas Akram to people contacts in the shape amount of these commodities Awan, Senior Vice President of cultural especially trade were being imported into Russia SCCI welcomed the honorable delegations of both countries through other countries; direct guests and members of were also necessary and should trade should be encouraged this Chamber. The Senior be encouraged. He stressed as it would result in saving Vice President said that the to take immediate and drastic delivery times and controlling relationship between Russia steps to increase bilateral trade costs, the SVP informed. He and Pakistan was based on solid as total trade volume between further said that bilateral foundations and cooperation the two countries according to trade was not possible without in various important fields. He Ministry of Commerce Pakistan effective banking system; he stressed that both sides should was around USD 500 (M) which recommended that both sides develop greater economic didn’t reflect the true potential should expedite the process linkages having great potential that existed in the markets of of Banking and Payment in fields of trade, energy and both countries. He said that Arrangement (BPA) between infrastructure development. access to Made in Pakistan Russia’s Central Bank and For Russia, Pakistan had the products like Leather Goods, the State Bank of Pakistan

72 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry to provide a trade settlement as a renowned Industrial shared that there was a specific mechanism for promotion of Hub, its dynamics, Industrial procedure for Business Visa, trade between Pakistan and Sectors and its progressive mentioned the requirement of Russia. people. He appreciated all the invitation letter from Russian social & welfare projects of partner; he said that there was Furthermore, he mentioned Sialkot Chamber. He shared no obstacle if the applicant that issuance of visas to the ups & downs in relations fulfill the requirements for the businessmen should be between Russia & Pakistan required visa. Furthermore, he simplified; direct linkages as both the countries were assured that the concerns of and communication network the important trade partners. Sialkot Business Community between Pakistan and Russia He also mentioned the would be forwarded to the Visa should be established. Both significance of Pakistan in Consulate Section. should facilitate and encourage Muslim world because of its frequent exchanges of trade influential strategic location. Members of SCCI and Waqas delegations in order to create Sialkot as an Export Oriented Akram Awan, Senior Vice effective linkages between City had lots of potential; both President SCCI appreciated the the business communities the countries should have to encouraging words of the Guest of both countries. Also, hefty develop the opportunities for and emphasized that bilateral documentation for the export each other, the Deputy Chief relations should be promoted sectors of both sides should said. He further elaborated in true sense with the true be simplified to facilitate the the role of Russian Embassy spirit. Linkages and People-to- smooth flow of trade. He also in Pakistan and he said that People Contact should have to shared about the dynamics and both the countries should be strong in order to increase working of Sialkot Chamber of have to work with the trade the trade. In this regard, visa Commerce & Industry as an organizations e.g. Chambers, policy for the newcomers should apex body of Sialkot Industry. trade bodies, Embassies etc. be facilitative; so that, they Sialkot had developed SME to connect the private sectors. could visit Russia frequently culture highly conducive He also suggested that a and explore the market. They to business collaborations step forward should be taken mentioned the import duties, and joint ventures in various to establish a kind of joint taxes and Tariffs on goods etc. industries. organization like Joint Chamber these impediments should of Commerce to flourish the also be focused for enhancing Mr. Vladimir Berezyuk, Deputy trade and economic relations the trade. Sialkot Industry had Chief of Mission of Russia to of Russia & Pakistan. Central the Multi-Commodity Industry Pakistan thanked the Sialkot Banks of Both Russia and looking forward the means Chamber of Commerce & Pakistan should collaborate for to promote those products in Industry and its members sharing economic information Russia. for their warm welcome and and for playing partial role to appreciated the City Sialkot strengthen the economies. He

Annual Report 2018 - 19 73 Visit of Mr. Tariq Abbas Qureshi Regional Police Officer Gujranwala (RPO)

December 13, 2018

Mr. Tariq Abbas Qureshi, Regional Police Officer Gujranwala (RPO) visited the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry. Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI), President SCCI welcomed Mr. Tariq Abbas Qureshi (Regional Police Officer, Gujranwala) and Mr. Ameer Abdullah Khan Niazi (District Police Officer, Sialkot) to visit this esteemed Chamber. President SCCI said that he had firm belief that RPO, on the basis of his experience, would play his significant role in improving law and order situation of Sialkot. He shared that Sialkot Chamber had cordial relations/liaison exposure. He shared that he Disputes” issues / cases of the with Police Department to had devised a comprehensive members of Sialkot Chamber collaborate for peace and plan for the improvement in for resolution, the RPO shared. prosperity of the city that Police department in order He also instructed the DPO to was instrumental for healthy to give best possible services give Proper Representation business environment. It was for this city. He admitted the to this Chamber in Alternate also discussed that there were issue of less number of Traffic Dispute Bodies (ADRs) and also lack of police staff in Sialkot. Wardens in Sialkot due to facilitate its members in Police Issue of traffic choking in which it was difficult to control Stations on priority basis. He Sialkot, low manpower of Traffic the traffic. He further shared requested the members that Wardens, shortage of , about the Computerized Traffic cash carrying inside the city motor cycles, wireless sets and Management System was the area should be with proper other mandatory equipment’s smart and effective solution Security guard. were also discussed. and it should be adopted Mr. Tariq Abbas Qureshi, because of its efficiency. In the end, member of Sialkot Regional Police Officer, He emphasized that Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Gujranwala thanked the Chamber should take up this office bearers thanked the authorities of SCCI and said matter with higher authorities guests and appreciated the that it was an honor for him to to initiate computerized traffic them for their previous services; visit the esteemed Chamber. management system in Sialkot. whereas, they expressed their He appreciated high literacy Traffic Police Department may hope that Police Department of rate and per Capita Income improve traffic management Sialkot would improve and law of masses of Sialkot as he system with the coordination and order situation would be also mentioned that Sialkot of local government efficiently; better in coming days. Community were well aware and he also instructed the DPO to had an excellent international send “give take” / “Payment

74 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Visit of Mr. Yuji Tokita Economic Counsellor, Embassy of Japan to Pakistan

December 19, 2018

Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI), the Special Economic Zones appreciable. He shared that President SCCI welcomed being setup in Sialkot. He said couple of Japanese Companies Mr. Yuji Tokita, Economic that Surgical Instruments faced problem in terms of Taxes Counsellor of Embassy of manufacturing was one of and Duties etc. He shared that Japan to Pakistan in Sialkot the major sector of Sialkot’s manufacturing companies in Chamber of Commerce & Industry and for that purpose, Sialkot had an advantage over Industry. He shared that Sialkot Industry was very much the Japanese Companies. He Pakistan Exports to Japan in interested in Japanese steel. referred to the successful visit 2017-18 (July-June) US$ 194 He emphasized on exchange of Mr. Abdul Razak Dawood, (M) and Pakistan Imports from of delegations and shared that Advisor to Prime Minister of Japan 2017-18 (July-June) US$ Government of Pakistan was Pakistan to Japan. 2.42 (B). He said that Chinese ready to change Laws in order Companies were coming to to facilitate the business people. Mr. Ikram-ul-Haq, Former Lahore, , , Senior Vice President SCCI and Sialkot Chambers. Sialkot Mr. Yuji Tokita, Economic shared that companies from Chamber anticipated creation of Counsellor thanked President Pakistan were ready to support B2B linkages with the business SCCI and members; he Japanese Companies. He community of Japan to explore informed that 23 Japanese said that Sialkot Surgical prospects of Joint Ventures in Companies would like to invest Instruments exports to Japan Pakistan especially considering in Pakistan and it was much in 2017-18 were US$ 8(M)

Annual Report 2018 - 19 75 whereas Japan imported US$ Pakistan Readymade Garments Japan Business Forum was 5.7 (B) from other countries. He Manufacturers and Exporters established in February 2001 emphasized that Japan should Associations shared that with support from Board of source these products directly Pakistan was now improving Investment, Embassy of Japan, from Pakistan rather to use the quality of the products Consulate of Japan and the indirect sources. He suggested manufactured; so that Sialkot reciprocal partner Japan that sector specific delegations needed Technical people of Pakistan Business Cooperation should be exchanged between Japan to support the Industry. Committee (JPBCC) PJBF both the countries. He informed Pakistan was also the had been playing vital role in that the role Sialkot Chamber largest importer of Japanese expanding and strengthening was very dynamic and vibrant Machinery. He suggested that business and social relations in promotion of business regular interactions would between both the countries. activities. He informed that raw be made between both the He informed that JETRO material sourcing would be very countries, so that fruitful results Karachi Office plays a pivotal important for the manufacturing should be taken. role of facilitating and linking Sectors of Sialkot. He suggested the Japanese Business that Japanese Companies Mr. Waqas Akram Awan, Senior and Government side with should establish Material Banks Vice President SCCI shared the Pakistani business and in Sialkot with collaboration about the high quality & value Government side. He shared of Sialkot Industry. He added goods which were that Sialkot Chamber would requested that Government being sourced by top brands like to sign MoU with Pakistan of Japan should promote around the globe. In order to Japan Business Forum (PJBF) this idea because millions of expand and explore potential to explore new avenues of instruments produced every in Japanese markets, Sialkot cooperation and would like to month and Businessmen of Chamber would appreciate know what kind of facilitation Sialkot have confidence in if Japanese Embassy could Pakistan Japan Business Japanese Raw Material. He create linkages with Marketing Forum (PJBF) was providing also shared that Japan is the Companies in Japan and to the businesses of Japan. 8th largest importer of Surgical also Japan International He requested that cooperation Instruments as well. Cooperation Agency (JICA), of Japanese Embassy was The SVP acknowledged. Mr. required in this regard. Mr. Ejaz Khokhar, Chairman Awan shared that Pakistan-

76 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Visit of Major General Syed Hasnat Amir (Hilal-E-Imtiaz Military) Director General Military Land & Cantonment Board, Rawalpindi

January 04, 2019

Major General Syed Hasnat Amir (Hilal-E-Imtiaz Military), Director General Military Land and Cantonment Board, Rawalpindi visited the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry on January 04, 2019. Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI), President SCCI warmly welcomed distinguished guests and members of the Chamber. President SCCI admired the services of Pakistan Armed Forces and said that Armed Forces had always performed their exemplary job against internal problem or external aggression to uphold sovereignty and honor of the also discussed the matters Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI), country. He appreciated the related to Cantt area and President Sialkot Chamber higher Military Management its maintenance e.g. Speed and other members for of Sialkot Cantt for developing Breaker should be tire friendly, their warm welcome and the new roads and shopping sign Boards should also be hospitality. He assured that malls in Sialkot Cantt and taken affixed on all roads for the he had understanding about up various corrective steps for better deriving, Hospital should the concerns shared by the maintenance and beautification be reconstructed at Masjid President SCCI about the city of that area. He mentioned Road which was the actual and he would work on all those the collaborative relations of Land of General Hospital and issues with his best possible previous Garrison Commanders Sui Gas connections should efforts. He assured that he and appraised him for his be provided to Defense Officer would try to resolve the issues services. On the other side, Housing Colony which was of SCCI members regarding he also briefed the purpose pending from last 10 years. Cantonment Board affairs on of formation and functioning Furthermore, he also discussed priority basis. Regarding issue of Departmental Committee some pending work of different of Defense Officer Housing on Garrison HQ / Cantonment projects and colonies and Colony Survey No 127, he said Board Affairs. requested that matter should that he was already working on be focused and completed the matters of encroachment President SCCI requested to under the supervision of related in that colony. He discussed make GLR renewal procedure authorities. the matters of beautification & convenient and said that, MEO maintenance of the Cantonment Officer should be available at Major General Syed Hasnat Area of the city and assured Sialkot Office once in a month Amir (Hilal-E-Imtiaz Military), that he would take up all the so that residents may submit Director General Military related matters with proactive GLR renewal dcuments to him Land and Cantonment approach. instead of visit Gujranwala. He Board, Rawalpindi thanked

Annual Report 2018 - 19 77 Visit of H.E. Noordeen Mohamed Shaheid High Commissioner of Sri Lanka

January 08, 2019

Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI), 3rd Edition of Single Country resource base for exchanging President SCCI welcomed His Exhibition of Pakistan in Sri information. Mr. Masud Sharing Excellency Noordeen Mohamed Lanka held in January 2018, his views said that to increase Shaheid, High Commissioner was the evidence of the vision bilateral trade, both countries of Sri Lanka to Pakistan, of both sides to enhance B2B should facilitate single country and also congratulated the linkages and promote trade. trade exhibitions and encourage High Commissioner for He also mentioned the total frequent exchanges of trade assuming charge as the High trade volume between the two delegations and urged the Commissioner. President countries was around 430 (M) businesses from both countries SCCI mentioned the relations USD; whereas, he stressed to enter into Joint Ventures. between Pakistan and Sri Lanka that with collaborated efforts President SCCI also appreciated were marked by mutual respect from Sialkot Chamber and the the positivity of Sri Lankan and commonality of views on esteemed High Commission People; being a multi-cultural major regional and global issues of Sri Lanka, trade could cross market and shared about the and close-cooperation all issues billion dollar mark by facilitating diversity & demographics of of mutual interest. He said that frequent interactions of private Sri Lanka. He emphasized it was also encouraging to note sectors and promoting B2B that exchange of business that both sides had stepped Linkages. delegations, B2B Meetings up their efforts in increasing and Exhibitions should be business to business linkages President SCCI suggested encouraged to enhance the to enhance trade and further for active engagements of trade volume between both the build upon the existing relations the Sri Lankan and Pakistani countries as he also mentioned both countries enjoy. Efforts like Chambers, which could act as that bilateral trade of two

78 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry countries were not up to the real potential. Many goods in Sri Lanka, that Pakistan could be imported, and many products could be exported to Sri Lanka as well and he also mentioned a FTA under which import or export of some products were duty free for both the countries.

Noordeen Mohamed Shaheid, High Commissioner of Sri Lanka to Pakistan thanked the President, SCCI members & Sialkot Chamber; he applauded the Industrial dynamics of the to share more opportunities Cricketers; he shared some city and business community with Sialkot Industry. At the historic perspectives of Sri to serve the country by end, he appraised the Sialkot Lanka and its glory. Gratitude contributing a hefty amount of International Airport established to Sri Lanka as the true friend Foreign Exchange in National by Sialkot business community of Pakistan was paid by SCCI; Exchequer. He admired the as the first privately owned it was mentioned that the personality of great philosopher airport, he hoped that Sri above discussed FTA was & poet “Dr. Allama Muhammad Lankan airline would also fly about Agriculture Products, Iqbal” for his unforgettable from Sri Lanka to Sialkot in Fisheries and Minerals etc. contributions for the nation. future, and it would also be He requested to review that He focused that Single Country discussed on upper level. He FTA and emphasized that Exhibition should be encouraged also expressed his love for the Sialkot made products e.g. and he assured that he would cricket and mentioned Pakistani surgical instruments, sports work on it to make it possible and Sri Lankan renowned goods, leather products and for this year. He added that he players and memorable cricket other sectors etc. should had a mission to visit all over matches between both the be considered in free-trade the Pakistan in order to assess countries. He thanked again for agreements to enhance the the products made by Pakistan inviting him as a guest to Sialkot access of these products into and could be exported to Sri Chamber and hoped that this Sri Lankan Market. He said Lank through the prospective visit would prove beneficial for that FTA for the Sialkot made FTA revision and vice versa. both the countries. products would be open up the Furthermore, he assured that door for more trade between he would study the FTA in Mr. Waqas Akram Awan, Senior both the countries and would detail and work on different Vice President SCCI discussed prove WIN-WIN situation for delegation & exhibitions, than the Sports Diplomacy and also both. he would visit Sialkot again mentioned the Sri Lankan

Annual Report 2018 - 19 79 MOU Signing Ceremony Between SCCI & MODEC Pvt Ltd.

January 09, 2019

Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI), President Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry welcomed Dr. Muhammad Irshad, President, MODEC Pvt Ltd, Islamabad and his team. He said that Sialkot Chamber was in search for a team of professionals, who could help in creating better liaison with Government offices. He informed that Mr. Zahid Latif could come easily. He said partnership between MODEC Malik, Former President SCCI that Sialkot Chamber needed and Sialkot Chamber is going worked a lot on this and short guidance from MODEC on how to happen and both of them listed MODEC, Islamabad to work with the Government should focus on how to realize for the said purpose. He said Officials. the Government about the that after having a meeting importance of ease of doing with the team MODEC, Sialkot Mr. Zahid Latif Malik, Former business. Chamber found them very President Sialkot SCCI professional and found them congratulated on the MoU Dr. Muhammad Irshad, very much suitable for Lobbying signing ceremony between both President MODEC, Islamabad and creating soft image of MODEC and Sialkot Chamber. said that he was very happy to Sialkot Chamber in front of He said that follow-ups were sit with real business people. He the Government officials. He always very important in order assured that genuine business said that the Government of to keep the issues alive and not issues would be highlighted in Pakistan was focused enough buried down in files. He said a proper manner. Moreover, to facilitate the SME’s and that Government of Pakistan he said that MODEC would be export sectors of Pakistan. was willing to do something for an office of Sialkot Chamber in The President was of the view, the businesses and especially Islamabad. He said that team Sialkot Chamber felt that Laws Mr. , Prime Minister of MODEC would analyze the creating hurdles in Exports of Pakistan was focused on issues and take up the same could be amended. He said that enhancing of exports of the with the Government. He Sialkot being the hub of SME’s Country. He also said that it said that team MODEC would was in a position to realize the would prove to be the Golden follow-up on the issues on problems and rectify them for time for MODEC to perform daily basis. He said the MODEC the exports. He referred to the its services in a better way. would own every task given by visit of with Mr. Abdul Razak Furthermore, he informed Sialkot Chamber. He said that Dawood to Sialkot Chamber, he that Sialkot’s local leadership enhancement of export would assured that Government would also working a lot in order to be the only way to get out the facilitate SME’s sector. He said facilitate the Industry. He said economic crises currently that Sialkot Chamber needed that they had already taken up faced by Pakistan. He hoped MODEC supported in achieving some issues with MODEC and that partnership between the desired goal. He informed with the passage of time more Sialkot Chamber and MODEC Team MODEC that follow-up issues would be shared. would develop a new model in should be very strong. He said Pakistan. that Government should make Mr. Waqas Akram Awan, Senior Sialkot a place where foreigners Vice President SCCI said that a

80 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Visit of Mr. Muhammad Qasim Khan Suri Deputy Speaker National Assembly, Pakistan

January 12, 2019

Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI), He said that SME sector needed be stopped and an exemption on President Sialkot Chamber the support of the Government customs duty should be given welcomed the Honorable guest and Sialkot being a hub of SME’s up to US$ 500 would be given, Mr. Muhammad Qasim Khan required special attention. He so that FBR personals could Suri, Deputy Speaker National informed that Sialkot’s share in not stop them. He hopped that Assembly, Islamic Republic the exports of Pakistan was US$ Government would support the of Pakistan, Mr. Usman Dar, 2.0 (B), and assured if some exporters in every respect so Special Adviser to the Prime impractical obligations on the that they work whole heartedly. Minister on Youth Affairs, Mr. exporters by FBR, etc., which Umer Dar, ultimately gave no benefit to Mr. Muhammad Qasim Khan Tehreek-e-Insaf Central Punjab, the Government were removed, Suri, Deputy Speaker National Chaudhry Muhammad Akhlaq, SME sector would definitely Assembly, Islamic Republic Provincial Minister of Punjab for double the exports of Sialkot. of Pakistan, thanked Khawaja Special Education, Dr. Firdous He also discussed the issues Masud Akhtar (SI), President Ashiq Awan, Mr. Muhammad that banks were not practically SCCI and members. He also Akmal Cheema, and all the following the SBP’s schemes appreciated Khawaja Masud participants of the meeting. He to finance the SMEs for their Akhtar (SI) for competing with appreciated that Government growth & development; on the the whole world in the field of of Pakistan was taking positive other hand, He also informed football and manufactured FIFA steps to boost the SME sector that development of samples World Cup 2014 & 2018 official and businesses in Pakistan. were heavily charged by the match ball. He also said that He appreciated the support Customs, marked high values he was honored to visit Sialkot, rendered by Mr. Usman Dar in of the item and hold the item who was earning US$ 2.0 (B) order to resolve the issues of the for 4-5 days. He requested that exports per annum and earning business community of Sialkot. such type of samples should not precious foreign exchange

Annual Report 2018 - 19 81 for Pakistan. He appreciated Small Industrial Estate. He played a vital role in creating the role of Sialkot business also assured that Industry will jobs. He emphasized that Community in establishing grow and Government would Sialkot deserved the focus of Sialkot International Airport always keep the interest of the the Government. He said that (SIAL) in private sector. He businesses on priority. he would play his role as a said that any country which bridge between Government of indulged in corruption and Mr. Usman Dar, Special Adviser Pakistan and people of Sialkot. disregard merit system would to the Prime Minister on Youth lag far behind like Pakistan. Affairs, thanked President SCCI Chaudhry Muhammad Akhlaq, He informed that current and appreciated him for his Provincial Minister of Punjab Government was Business commitment for betterment for Special Education requested friendly and would support of Sialkot Industry. He said to pin point the issues faced the Exporters and SME sector that People of Sialkot people by the Industry, so that issues of Pakistan. He appreciated worked very hard but at would be highlighted in front of the efforts of Sialkot Business Government level Sialkot was high-ups and maximum relief Community that they fought always neglected and his goal would be given to the people of against the unjust policies made was to raise the voice of Sialkot Sialkot. Whereas, Mr. Umer Dar, by the previous governments people in Government offices. President of Pakistan Tehreek- and kept the industry alive. He said that he stood with the e-Insaf Central Punjab thanked He said that exporters should business community of Sialkot President SCCI and assured that work with Government of in issues like DRAP, Air-SIAL, Sialkot Business Community Pakistan. He assured that etc., and now they were moving would be on top priority. He said he would suggest Mr. Asad towards one window operation that Sialkot had contributed a Umar, Minister of Finance to for the exporters of Sialkot. lot in the economy of Pakistan. introduce better Laws in the He shared that SME’s always

82 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Visit of Mr. Asad Umar Federal Minister for Finance, Revenue & Economic Affairs

January 28, 2019

Mr. Asad Umar, Federal Government’s efforts to of the industry. He shared Minister for Finance, Revenue strengthen the economy of current status of colonization and Economic Affairs visited Pakistan in view of prevailing of Sialkot Export Processing the Sialkot Chamber. Khawaja economic challenges and Zone and emphasized that SEPZ Masud Akhtar (SI), President, expressed hope of revival of could be rendered successful Sialkot Chamber of Commerce economy through Government’s by restoration of incentives and Industry, welcomed efforts to promote exports gradually withdrawn by the Mr. Asad Umar, Federal and attract foreign direct Government over time. Minister for Finance, Revenue investment. He informed that and Economic Affairs, Mr. the proposed bill would reduce He explained the incentives Muhammad Hammad Azhar, custom duty on import of which were made available at Minister of State for Revenue, raw materials needed for the the time of launch of EPZs in Mian Muhammad Aslam export industry. He appreciated 1981 e.g. No taxes on import Iqbal, Provincial Minister for Government’s move to allow of materials & import of Industries, Commerce and Advance Payments of up to construction materials, Non- Investment, Punjab, Mr. Ansar US$10,000/- against import of applicability of labour laws, Majeed Khan Niazi, Provincial raw materials for the export No requirement of custom Minister for Labour and Human industry. He said that true audit, Allowance of holding Resource, Punjab, distinguished potential of the export sector of of materials in EPZ until sale guests and members of Sialkot Sialkot could only be realized without fixation of period for Chamber. He appreciated by addressing critical issues re-export etc. He also apprised

Annual Report 2018 - 19 83 collection of Federal, Provincial and Local Taxes to promote business friendly environment. It was also proposed to abolish regulatory duty on import of Magnetic Steel scrap and revise ITP to declare it Zero Rated to support Surgical Industry. Furthermore, he discussed about delays in Sialkot- Pasrur Road project, Property Valuation rates notified by the Deputy Commissioner (DC valuation rate) in Sialkot especially in SIE-I and EPZ and Clearance of shipments returned by the foreign customers due to quality or any that unilateral changes in Amendment) Bill, 2019, by other issues. customs laws by FBR had the the Government and said that effective results. But in order a list of 377 items had been Mr. Ansar Majeed Khan Niazi, to facilitate colonization of proposed by Sialkot Chamber Provincial Minister for Labour EPZ, he proposed to; render for reduction of duties to the and Human Resource, Punjab facilitation in installation of Government; whereof, duties thanked the President and said import substitution industry on 8 out of 43 items of Gloves that Government was chalking through joint ventures with sector, 21 out of 77 items of out new policies for business Chinese businesses, low Leather Sector and 14 items facilitation. He informed that commercial warehousing facility of Footwear had been reduced. Labour and Human Resource within the zone, Allowing the He requested to consider other Department Punjab had been facility of custom clearance to proposed items for reduction working on a broader agenda to EPZ units from any Dry Port of duties as well. During his promote enabling environment or Sea Port of the country address, he drew attention of for the businesses and break to provide the flexibility of the guests towards the issues through decisions were consolidation of shipments at including outstanding duty expected in the near future. He any port, simplifying procedures drawback claims of Rs.3 billion, assured that all problems of for bond to bond movement of Infrastructure Development the employers and employees inputs / raw materials, define Cess imposed by Sindh and would be addressed swiftly. mechanism for refund of Punjab Governments at the He apprised that system of duties against duty paid inputs rate of 1.15% and 0.90%, non- collection of Social Security purchased from tariff area and provision of security by SBP for Contribution and provision allow normal depreciation on collateral Free Loan to SMEs of healthcare facilities to the plant and machinery at the time etc. He discussed that duty free workers was being revamped of disposal of machinery in tariff import of samples and spare to maximize facilitation to area and no duty should be part of industrial machinery up the industry and the workers. charged if plant and machinery to the value of US$ 500 should He assured to take up all the had aged more than five years. be exempated; process to claim related concerns of Sialkot on He informed that EPZ had been Duty Drawback be simplified, priority basis. established on 238 acres of Sales Tax and DLTL claims land with 881 plots allotted to should be simplified, collection Mian Muhammad Aslam Iqbal, the businesses whereas only of taxes and levies through Provincial Minister thanked 14 units had been operational One Window Operation should the President and informed due to harsh legal requirements be introduced so that Social that Industries, Commerce and of the zone. He requested to Security and EOBI contribution Investment Department Punjab introduce above mentioned could be collected at source at was planning to establish an changes in law to encourage the time of realization of export Industrial Zone on Lahore- investment in the zone. proceeds and exporters could Sialkot Motorway. He apprised be saved from harassment as that the proposed Industrial The President Chamber a result of notices issued by Zone would be planned on appreciated introduction of the departments. It was further 3000 acres, 1500 acres on Finance Supplementary (Second proposed to simplify levy and

84 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry both sides, half-way on the the Finance Minister as he had businessmen would not motorway, so that it could cater been having meeting with the have to deal with multiple the requirements of Lahore, representatives of the Chamber tax collection agencies and Sheikhupura and Sialkot for the fifth time during last in Finance Supplementary industry. During his address, five months. He appreciated (Second Amendment) Bill, 2019, he discussed about a loan the political leadership for incentives had been announced scheme for startup businesses, resolving various issues relating for the corporate sector. While a Credit Guarantee Scheme to export oriented industries discussing proposal of One with a fund of Rs.3.0 billion, of Sialkot and trusted that with Window Operation, he said that a Loan Markup Scheme etc. the support and vision of the Government was focused on in detail. He announced that Government, the exports of the clubbing of all Federal Taxes Government was introducing an city would double in the next five and Mr. Muhammad Hammad Inspection Free Labour Regime years. Azhar had been working on the and he further elaborated proposal. He indicated some that a web portal was being Mr. Asad Umar, Federal major changes in tax collection developed to introduce One Minister for Finance, Revenue system in the upcoming Window Operations, whereby and Economic Affairs thanked federal budget. He said that all business taxes would be the President and members Establishment of Women clubbed, so that businesses to discuss issues of the Chamber of Commerce and would not have to deal SMEs and the export sector. Industry Sialkot had been great with multiple tax collecting He said that without strong news and assured his all-out agencies. He assured that communication and linkages help to expedite it. In the end, more facilitation to the between the Government and he commented that Sialkot businesses would be extended the businesses, the economic would be the real beneficiary in the upcoming Federal and challenges could not be of the Government’s SME- Provincial Budgets. overcome. He constituted friendly policies and encouraged a committee to formulate the business community to Choudhry Akhlaq Ahmed, concrete recommendations achieve the target of exports Provincial Minister for Special for colonization of Export of US$ 6.0 billion in five years. Education, Punjab also briefed Processing Zone Sambrial He motivated the business the house about the efforts done in consultation with Sialkot community to identify the for rationalization of Property Chamber, within two months, so avenues, ascertain the markets, Valuation Rates and highlighted that they could be incorporated point out skill development the support extended by Mian in the upcoming Finance Bill. requirements and advise the Muhammad Aslam Iqbal to While referring to pendency Government about the tasks address issues of the Surgical of refunds, he informed that to be performed and the Industry at provincial level it was prime consideration of Government would implement and trusted that it would go a the Government to simplify the things accordingly. long way in strengthening of collection of taxes, so that Surgical sector in Pakistan. Mr. Muhammad Hammad Azhar, Minister of State for Revenue while referring to the concepts of ease of doing business stated that Government was determined to promote enabling environment for the businesses and would be focusing on initiatives targeted on the betterment of the industry. He also discussed the working on reduction of regulatory & custom duties on import of Polyester Yarn, issue of Import Trade Price of Steel Scrap and Regulatory Duty on the item could also be revised etc. Mr. Muhammad Usman Dar appreciated the vision of

Annual Report 2018 - 19 85 Visit of Delegation from Foundation University Rawalpindi Campus

February 07, 2019

Lt Col. Syed Amir Haider (R), Col. (R) Ghuffar (Principal Sialkot Campus), Mr. Ebad-Ullah Bhalli (Vice Principle FF Sialkot Campus) visited the Sialkot Chamber. Mr. Waqar Akram Awan, Senior Vice President warmly welcomed the guests and members of Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry. He said that apparently, every Industry would be reluctant to share their skilled key worker for a longer period, since the with the Fauji Foundation. He SCCI could help FF in identifying production would affect due to shared that FF was focused to concerned Persons who has their absence from production enroll experience graduates worked under a renowned unit. Furthermore, he suggested instead of fresh graduates, but name and now working as an that some private institutes main stress would be given entrepreneur. which were specialized in CNC to Instructors/Demonstrators and Milling used in or Lab Assistants with 10-20 Mr. Syed Ahtesham Mazher, surgical production line, their years of practical experience. Former Vice President SCCI services could also be availed. He also proposed to have ‘on thanked the guests to visit SCCI job trainings’ of at least 20 and collaborate with Sialkot Lt. Col Syed Amir Haider students on production units Industry; he suggested that an (R), Technical & Vocational for 2 to 3 months depending on ad for required instructor(s) Training consultant at Fauji requirement of their acquired could be posted within SCCI Foundation thanked Mr. courses. He also shared about premises and notice could also Waqas Akram Awan, Senior their co-ordination with Ministry be published in Chamber’s Vice President SCCI and said of Commerce to fund training Bulletin. He also suggested that due to space constraint, institute for producing skilled that FFUS team should give Fauji Foundation had reduced tradesmen catering to export stipend up to Rs.10,000/- which the number of active courses based industries of Sialkot to would inject the spirit within the from 10 to 7. Courses were run an awareness campaign, students, the stipend should included Sports Wear Stitcher, where vendors from the be given on basis of attendance Leather Garments pattern industry will be called upon to in order to make sure their maker, Mechanic, demonstrate them with new presence. FFUS could also Computerized Accounting, technology to boast Exports. avail the avenues like for Export Graphic Designing, Milling Development Fund (EDF) and Machine/CNC Machine, Import Mr. Ebad-Ullah Bhalli, Vice Punjab Skill Development Fund and Export procedures and Principle Fauji Foundation (PSDF) to make sure availability documentations. He shared that Sialkot Campus said that a of funds for their students. All in his recent visit to National recommendation for instructors the participants of the meeting Textile University (NTU), and demonstrators from the unanimously decided that Mr. Faisalabad; it was suggested industry was given by the SCCI. Waqas Akram Awan, Senior Vice to get affiliated with their FF He shared that some issues for President would be the focal Sialkot campus. He hoped that getting an instructor for export person for this Project from in near future National Textile & import documentations and Sialkot Chamber. University may sign a MOU procedures. He also said that

86 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Visit of Dr. Yasmeen Rashid Provincial Minister of Punjab for Primary & Secondary Healthcare

February 19, 2019

Dr. Yasmeen Rashid, Honorable Provincial Minister of Punjab for Primary and Secondary Healthcare visited the Sialkot Chamber on February 19, 2019. Mr. Waqas Akram Awan, Senior Vice President Sialkot Chamber welcomed the guests and appreciated revolutionary initiatives in health sector like Issuance of Health Card initially in 8 districts of South Punjab and up gradation of Basic Health Units due to which deprived people would be facilitated and able to get basic necessities of health. He due to non-availability of proper of Departmental Committee on informed that Sialkot Chamber doctors owing to which hospitals Hospitals and Health Services of was striving hard to facilitate of main cities were overcrowded Sialkot Chamber and said that the business community of with patients. She said that new all Medical Superintendents Sialkot and welfare of civil revolutionary measures would of hospitals were invited in the society as well. He assured be taken to deal with the long meetings of the Committee to fullest cooperation in provision standing problems of workforce discuss the matters cited above. of better health services to and latest equipment in Basic He requested to take necessary people in line with the vision of Health Units, Rural Health measures for approval of PC-1 the Honorable Prime Minister of Centers, Tehsil Headquarters of new hospital in the name of Pakistan. and District Headquarters of “Missing Specialties at DHQ backward districts Rajanpur, Hospital” to be established in Dr. Yasmeen Rashid, Provincial D. G Khan, Lodhara, Jhang, the premises of Civil Hospital Minister for Health thanked Chaniot, , Mianwali and Sialkot which was pending for and informed that Prime Qasoor would be provided. approval. Minister Health Scheme would Rural health centers would be be launched on February 22, transformed into emergency Honorable Minister shared her 2019 initially in 8 districts and health centers which would be consent for the suggestions later on would be expanded opened for 24 hours. by the members and assured to 36 Districts of Punjab. She the full support to the Sialkot also informed that Health Card Dr. Khurram Anwar Khawaja Community for taking important would be issued to 7.2 million welcomed the guests and steps for the betterment. Mr. families and the economic said that Joint Committee Waqas Akram Awan, Senior value of one card was 7 lac 20 should be formed to look Vice President thanked the thousand though which all types after the matters with all the Honorable Minister for visiting of patients would be treated requirements in coordination the Sialkot Chamber of anywhere in Pakistan. She told with Health Department. Mr. Commerce and Industry for that Basic Health Units of rural Muhammad Ashraf Malik also providing opportunity to discuss areas were not working properly briefed about the functioning the important concerns.

Annual Report 2018 - 19 87 Visit of H.E. Mr. iHSAN Mustafa Yurdakul Ambassador of Republic of Turkey to Pakistan

March 11, 2019

Mr. Waqas Akram Awan, Senior taken to attract both domestic trade potential. Both countries Vice President welcomed H.E. and foreign investment in could enjoy fruits of liberal trade Mr. ihsan Mustafa Yurdakul, Pakistan. He emphasized that between them by removing the Ambassador of Turkey to the vision of Prime Minister trade barriers and promoting Pakistan, Mr. Rashid Mansur, Imran Khan to facilitate the business to business linkages, Honorary Consul General of foreign investment, brothers Mr. Awan added. Turkey, distinguished guests in Turkey would look forward and members of Chamber. to investing in Pakistan by He requested the Ambassador’s He stated that Turkey and entering into Joint Ventures support in getting access to Pakistan were brotherly Islamic for which Sialkot had immense Made in Pakistan products Countries sharing religious, potential. He said that it was to Turkey as the Surgical cultural and socio-political also encouraging to note that Instruments, Work Wear & heritage. He also said that both countries were eager to Gloves, and Sports Apparel Turkey had a robust economy expand bilateral cooperation in had huge demand in Turkish with sustained growth rate. He diverse fields to benefit from Markets and Pakistan was stressed that Pakistan could each other’s expertise to make known for having excellence learn a lot from the economic progress. He mentioned the in terms of quality in these and development models total trade volume between the products. He said that implemented by Turkey. He told two countries as per Ministry facilitation from the esteemed that the Federal Government of of Commerce Pakistan, in FY Embassy of Turkey in creation Pakistan was trying to boost the 2017-18 was just over USD 640 of linkages between the economy; it had embarked on (M). He also said that there was Sialkot Chamber of Commerce an ambitious socio-economic, a lot of potential to increase & Industry and Marketing infrastructure development this volume of trade as both Companies in Turkey to promote agenda and various steps being sides had a huge unexplored Sialkot’s product line and to

88 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry increase B2B Linkages should He emphasized that the love were already working in be focused. He shared that & affiliation between both the Pakistan and he said that Turkey Sialkot Chamber, owing to countries ‘Turkey & Pakistan’ was always ready to invest in its vision of promoting Joint had been increasing day by day; Pakistan. He also discussed Ventures and Trading Relations and he hoped that the friendship about the agriculture sector with Turkish Businesses, would create fruitful results. of Pakistan and applauded the had also signed an MOU with He mentioned the recent issues quality , rice, fruits and Sanliurfa Teknokent of Turkey, between India & Pakistan; told vegetables produce in Pakistan. a Technology Development about the clear and strong He told about an opportunity Zone established under vision of Turkish President about purchasing property Harran University and Ministry that Turkey would always be in Turkey for investment; he of Science, Industry and with Pakistan through thick said that many facilities were Technology to collaborate & thin. He discussed the low on offer up to certain limits. in Research, Innovation and trade volume between both the He said that he would share Exploration of Business countries and said that it was the details regarding this Opportunities. He expressed less than the actual potential. opportunity. He emphasized on his hope that meeting would He stressed that the potential the tourism sector of Turkey, its set the foundation for stronger areas should be identified for cities & culture to explore the and mutually beneficial trading increasing the trade volume. nature and beauty. relations between Pakistan and He also mentioned the last Turkey. visit of Mr. Imran Khan, PM of The Ambassador told that Pakistan to Turkey and shared there were many sectors/ H.E. Mr. I. Mustafa Yurdakul, the positive feedback about the products on which there were Ambassador of Republic of meetings held between high zero custom rates; Pakistan Turkey to Pakistan thanked the ups of both the countries. He should also focus those sectors/ Senior Vice President, SCCI told that Turkey was working to products e.g. , stones members and Sialkot Chamber draft a trade agreement for both etc. He suggested that Pakistan of Commerce & Industry for brotherly countries to enhance should also participate in warm welcome and hospitality. work/trade/business/investment different trade Exhibitions held He shared that was not aware opportunities; therefore, in in Turkey and should promote about Sialkot City before taking coming years results could be the Business-to-Business the charge, and further shared visible in shape of economic visits/meeting for enhancing his experience to learn about uplift by mutual efforts. He interaction of private sector of Sialkot & its Industrial Sectors. stated that Turkish companies both the countries.

Annual Report 2018 - 19 89 International Women’s Day Celebration & Launching of Women Resource Center (WRC) - Outreach Programme

March 12, 2019

Dr. Mariam Nouman, Women Resource Center of by providing them easy access Chairperson WRC welcomed Chamber. She told that WRC to resources for starting and the female guests (industrial had been established by SCCI growing their businesses”, workers) form different Departmental Committee on she added. She shared the villages, Mr. Arshid Mehmood Women Entrepreneurs in 2009 experience of WRC in working Mirza, Executive Director in collaboration with CIPE. She with other national/international (Baidarie, Sialkot-Pakistan), elaborated its aims & objective organizations as well as she Dr. Khurram Anwar Khawaja as it was conceived to provide discussed the way forward of (President KKRTS), Mr. full support and assistance to WRC in future. She said that Fizan Akbar (Chairman, the existing as well as upcoming urban women were involved Departmental Committee Women Entrepreneurs and in different types of work/ on SME/Trainings), students SCCI’s female members. She profession, but there was a and members of Chamber on explained the working and lack in linkages between urban International Women’s Day functions of SCCI Departmental & rural female population. Celebration. She thanked the Committee on Women She appreciated the guest’ guest speakers for joining the Entrepreneurs. “The mission females for their hard work and event; she also encouraged of SCCI’s Women Resource motivated them to connect with the students to learn about Centre (WRC) is to enhance Industry as well as with Sialkot the Sialkot Chamber’s role entrepreneurial Skills among Chamber. in Sialkot Industry and Women Entrepreneurs of Sialkot

90 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry its significance. She discussed the rights, obligations, duties and opportunities of women internationally. She shared that the “Women’s Day” was celebrated to demonstrate that women had equal rights and a society should be framed to provide them equal opportunities by mutual efforts. She shared the economic facts & figures about female population, female employment, and its effects on national economy. She explained the agenda and vision of UN- Women and the working to Ms. Samina Center Incharge those centers to learn & earn achieve the goals. “Roshni Group” at Jaurian Kalan their livelihood. They thanked and Ms. Khalida Latief, Center Baidarie, Sialkot for such efforts Dr. Mariam Nouman, Incharge (Roras Village) shared and projects to make huge Chairperson WRC thanked their experiences and life changes in people’s lives. They all the speakers & guests journey with Baidarie. They told shared a message of ‘hard and announced the “WOMEN about the obstacles they had work, bravery & motivation’ to Resource Center (WRC) - faced in their lives and shared all the women. Outreach Programme” for the the story of their hard work. Ms Hafsa Mazhar, Head of rural women. She explained They had learned different skills sub office-Punjab UN Women that under the programme, the with the help of Baidarie for appreciated and congratulated rural women entrepreneurs making them able to earn and the WRC, SCCI and Baidarie would get registered in WRC, run their families. She further for celebrating International SCCI. Therefore, efforts would shared that Baidarie had started Women’s Day at Sialkot be made to grow & strengthen training cum work centers and Chamber. She shared her their businesses. many WOMEN were working in views on “Women’s Day” and

Annual Report 2018 - 19 91 Visit of Ms. Ann Mason, Chief Political and Economic Section US Consulate Lahore

March 12, 2019

Mr. Waqas Akram Awan, Progressive People. Further to the world. He proposed Senior Vice President warmly added that Sialkot had a multi that R&D Department of SCCI welcomed Ms. Ann Mason commodity industry exporting would continue liaison with US Chief Political and Economic around the globe with a major Consulate General at Lahore Section at SCCI. He expressed chunk exported to USA. He for accomplishment of the that her visit would further said that Sialkot Chamber same. “Sialkot Industry with its strengthen the US-Pak relations had been playing a role of potential could cater demands particularly the promotion of apex body not only in trade of US markets with utmost bilateral trade i.e. around USD promotion and facilitation to its quality, value addition and 6.8 Billion. He expressed that members, but also contributing commitments” he added. Pakistan affirmed USA as a equally to the Social Welfare major trade partner and had by overcoming certain issues The Senior Vice President said always been keen to promote like Child Labor, adapting that 90 % of the Sialkot Industry trade between two countries. International standardizations comprised of export based He said that Sialkot had an and encouraging usage of Small Medium Enterprises, eternal history with inherited e-commerce in order to make which could be facilitated with values and known as City of the industry most favorable strong US-PAK ties. In said

92 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry regard, US GSP program would the warm welcome. She She informed regarding serve as one aspect of plan to appreciated the versatility of inclusion of made in Sialkot enhance trade between the two Sialkot for being benchmark products like Surgical Goods, countries. He also said that the of standardization and quality Sports Goods Leather etc. into Industry was in need of joint in terms of excellence. She US GSP Program, Ms. Ann ventures in terms of transfer of appreciated active role of Mason said that the practice technology to extend portfolio Sialkot Chamber in providing would be lengthy in general in accordance to US demands. extraordinary facilities, as such addition would be Sialkot Chamber would highly platforms to grow, portraying considered after analyzing the encourage such collaborative industry’s best image to world level of production of the same initiatives and would protect that were in best interest of products in multiple countries. the deserving rights of Foreign its members. She said that She however suggested to investors. He said that Sialkot SCCI had yet again made study the products falling Chamber would consistently benchmark in the field of CSR in 10-digit HS Codes which interacting with Government in supporting individuals and might serve the cause of and other trade bodies for a society, courageously taking adding products in US GSP. unilateral understanding to social initiatives being a trade Ms. Ann Mason appreciated facilitate and promote Ease body. She acknowledged that forward thinking and proactive of Doing Business, Access Sialkot Industry always stood futuristic approach of SCCI. to Finance, Sialkot Export to the expectations of buyers She further expressed her Processing Zone and Small of United States. “The Industry willingness to initiate program Industrial State i.e. in the best also possesses potential to like US Business Awareness interest of the SMEs. improve further in terms of IPR Opportunity in Punjab in structure that was perhaps collaboration with SCCI which Ms. Ann Mason Political and the most concerning issues to was a comprehensive package Economic Chief expressed majority of US companies” the for new comers to business. gratitude to SCCI and its envoy quoted. Executive Committee for

Annual Report 2018 - 19 93 Visit of Mr. Nauman Aslam Executive Director IPO Pakistan

March 18, 2019

Mr. Waqas Akram Awan, Senior Vice President Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry welcomed Mr. Nauman Aslam, Executive Director IPO Pakistan and Mr. Fahad Raza Director IPO Pakistan on their visit to Sialkot Chamber.

Mr. Nauman Aslam, Executive Director IPO Pakistan thanked Mr. Waqas Akram Awan, SVP for the warm welcome. He shared that in 2019 the theme of World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) on World IP Day was “Reach for Gold: IP & Sports”. He informed any of Chamber member who for FIFA World Cup 2014 & that Intellectual Property would be willing. Moreover, 2018 “Brazuca” and “Telstar” Organization (IPO), Pakistan was he also said that IPO Pakistan would build image of Pakistan celebrating World IP Day on 24th would extend its full support in in general and Sialkot in of April 2019 at Serena Hotel resolving issues pertaining to particular. He further said that Islamabad in which delegation Intellectual Property Rights and Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI) from Sialkot Chamber, would also be ready to organize President SCCI was a roaming International dignitaries and a seminar for awareness of the ambassador and a success concerned authorities would same. story of Sialkot Industry and be called upon. He further said will be leading both events. that an IP Awareness Walk Mr. Waqas Akram Awan, He further communicated the had also been scheduled on Senior Vice President informed issues pertaining to the notices 20th of April 2019 for general that SCCI had successfully been received to SCCI from IP public in local cricket ground, dispatched products to IPO tribunals without details of the Islamabad. He informed that Pakistan for IP Day Event at case. IPO would mobilize a campaign Geneva on 22nd March, 2019. He for awareness of event to public assured Mr. Nauman Aslam that The meeting was concluded with 200 advertisement poles SCCI would provide sufficient with vote of thanks to the within twin cities. He explicitly material of the companies honorable guests and asked for a short documentary that are working with brands extended surety to ensure full comprising achievement of of world to IPO Pakistan participation of SCCI Members Sialkot Industry specifically for for the said events. Further and related Associations in the IP day. He also said that on 26th said that Sialkot Industry event, further built consensus April, 2019 supplement would was full of success stories to make close liaison of SCCI be displayed in Newspaper starting from MB sports, CA and IPO Pakistan to overcome and IPO would be ready to sports to Forwards Sports for the issues of IP Right faced by share the cost of space with manufacturing Soccer balls Sialkot Industry.

94 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI) Awarded with Sitar-i-Imtiaz by Government of Pakistan

March 23, 2019

On 23rd March, 2019, Khawaja Forward Group that is mainly A result of their constant Masud Akhtar (SI), President famous for manufacturing and innovation the company has Sialkot Chamber Commerce exporting Soccer Balls, Sports managed to decrease the and Industry was awarded with and Fashion Bags and Wallets wastage and improved their SITARA-I-IMTIAZ for his tireless to the World. Forward Sports is productivity by 7.2 Million Balls efforts, commitment to evolve among a few other companies in 2015 and 7.5 Million in 2016 the dynamics of Soccer Ball and in Sialkot Industry who have under the vision of Khawaja commendable work in the field state of the art Research and Masud Akhtar (SI). Being Sports Goods through constant Development Labs in their President Sialkot Chamber he Research and Development. factories, consistently working has ensured to strive with the The Gentleman was laureled in bringing innovation and same spirit and dedication for the Pakistani Nation for his diversities in their product line. rights of the Export Industry of dedication and commitment Adidas has also appreciated Sialkot, providing them enough in the field of Soccer Ball him on the determinations space and a platform to grow Manufacturing Industry by and reward the company of constantly to compete in the supplying Soccer Balls to FIFA Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI) with World. World Cup 2014 Brazuca and a certificate of Scientist behind Telstar to FIFA World Cup 2018, the product, supplied for FIFA respectively. Khawaja Masud World Cup. Akhtar (SI) is the CEO of the

Annual Report 2018 - 19 95 Visit of Mr. Siddique Sheikh Chairman, Pakistan American Business Association

March 26, 2019

Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI) President SCCI welcomed Mr. Siddique Sheikh Chairman Pakistan American Business Association at Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry.

Mr. Siddique Sheikh Chairman Pakistan American Business Association thanked President for the warm welcome extended. He handed over the profile of Pakistan American Business Association (PABA) and said education to SMEs of marketing city areas, conforming with that PABA was persistently their products in USA, in order International Standards the working to reduce Trade Gap to give equal opportunity and President said. He also said between Pakistan and USA. give tough time to Indian, that MOUs should be practical He mentioned that PABA Bangladeshi and Chinese in every possible way followed was organizing International supplier. by multiple interactions that Business Convention & Trade could be fruitful to industry. As Show 2020 where delegations Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI) China’s economy flourished coming from Pakistan President SCCI thanked Mr. due to substantial FDI coming specifically from Sialkot industry Siddique Sheikh for considering which developed the country, would get the opportunities the Sialkot Industry as PABA’s likewise, Pakistan needed same to develop business linkages, prime focus. He said that investments in Pakistan. PABA trade opportunities and equal China had emerged as a strong must play the role to eradicate chance of penetrating in economy in recent decades, the hurdles that resultantly untapped market within USA. Chinese expats helped their reduced the investments He said that PABA had already motherland getting business coming from USA to Pakistan. signed MOU with Lahore and played role of liaison. He further added that Sialkot Chamber and looking forward He said that China town in Industry needs a company that to having MOUs with Sialkot any country was an example could market their products and Gujranwala Chamber of of task-oriented approach, in the US Market and help Commerce & Industry that likewise each US-Pakistani them grow business from would focus working together must play a role of ambassador untapped markets of USA. He to find better and beneficial of Pakistan. He further said said that visits to exhibitions ways for local companies. PABA that PM Mr. Imran Khan were not serving the purpose. was focusing SMEs of Sialkot admired He also shared his experience Industry that could not get the and equally considered them of opening office in China, opportunities to grow in foreign as a key driver of Pakistani how Chinese investors and markets. International Business economy. Pakistan should also Governments were helping him Convention & Trade show 2020 follow the industrial model out of the way to invest in China. would be a flourishing platform of China, similar Economic He asked Mr. Siddique Sheikh to to expand their markets. He Zones, Export Processing Zones send their proposal in writing in further added that PABA would EPZs and Small Industrial order to take the concerned on provide proper training and Estates SIEs been build outside broad.

96 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Cash Prize Distribution Ceremony Students of City School and GC Women University

March 27, 2019

Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry arranged a program to extend its support towards academic excellence achieved by the hard-working and noteworthy students of Sialkot. Khawaja Masood Akhtar (SI), President Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry warmly welcomed the students, teachers, and parents to the Prize Distribution Ceremony. He stressed on the importance of education and also highlighted the role of education in building of a nation. He appreciated the hard-working students for their achievements. across Pakistan. He enormously Altaf, Ms. Mahnoor Tariq’ and Mr. Hammad Afzal, appreciated the hard work, her fellow athletes from GCWU spokesperson of The City dedication, and determination Sialkot. School took pride in sharing of the honorable teachers that Mr. Muhammad Hamza towards defining the future President SCCI, Khawaja Waqas Awan had cleared his of students. He informed that Masood Akhtar (SI) not only A-Levels Examination with Mr. Abdul Wasay succeeded acknowledged the role of former the First Position in 5 subjects to secure 1st Position in VC Prof. Dr. Farhat Saleemi for across Pakistan. He proudly at O level Examination under being a keen interest taker in mentioned that it was the the very umbrella of The City curricular and co-curricular First-ever Accomplishment of School. He also shared that activities but also appreciated its type in Schooling history of Mr. Izaz-ul-Haq secured 1st the role of Director Physical Sialkot with best results across Position in Chemistry in O level Education, Ms. Atia Altaf, as five (5) (Science and Business Examination across Pakistan. fulfilling the true responsibility Streams) Subjects in CAIEs of not only training the nationwide. He delightfully Mr. Sohaib, Spokesperson of students for becoming a mentioned that Muhammad GCWU Sialkot shared that Ms. professional athlete but also Hamza Waqas Awan was the Mahnoor Tariq won 25 medals in traveling with them for their one who secured admission in the athletics in the last three due support and security. at Imperial College London years. In the said regard, he He honored the impressive in Mechanical Engineering appreciated the tireless efforts students with cash prizes and without entrance exam. He said of Director Student Affairs Dr. souvenir to remember the that out of around 90 students Sayeda Sadia, Dr. Zarin Fatima, great achievements. The house from The City School acquired and Manager ORIC & Director wished the remarkable students top-grade results in O/A levels Physical Education, Ms. Atia a bright future ahead.

Annual Report 2018 - 19 97 Visit of Command & Staff College Quetta

April 3, 2019

Mr. Amer Hamid Bhatti, Vice President Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry welcomed and greeted the delegation of Command & Staff College, Quetta in Sialkot Chamber. The Vice President highly appreciated and acknowledged the services of towards the prosperity and peace of Pakistan. He also shared with the house the valuable share of Sialkot’s exports by sourcing the famous international brands i.e., FIFA & ADIDAS, Puma, Nike, and many others. He said that leather due to its uniques anticipated the energy crisis Sialkot’s major contribution to features. He also mentioned by using generators for the export was US$ 2.0 Billion. that Tannery Zone Sialkot energy back up. But severe was also completed and the consequences were faced in Col. Salman, Programme scattered units of the leather the shape of delayed shipments Coordinator of Command & industry would all converge and increased manufacturing Staff College Quetta thanked there. It would provide a better cost to the Industry. It made Sialkot Chamber for such a and safe business platform to difficult for the Sialkot Industry warm welcome and hospitality. the leather Industry of Sialkot. to expand more, in that time the He appreciated the remarkable He also mentioned that Sialkot Industry managed to survive role played by SCCI for the Industry was concerned about successfully. He added that betterment and prosperity of the elimination of Child Labor. Sialkot industry was largely the region and Pakistan. He SCCI had its own NGO that was based on the family-based firms also well-regarded the Sialkot teaching the children who were & SMEs and those firms were community for being self- in child labor and those families only able to meet the demand reliant for its mega-projects were provided some alternate of some International brands in i.e., dry port, AirSial, Sialkot substitutes of earnings as available resources, moreover International Airport. well. Mr. Ikram Ul Haq, Former certain products did not have Senior Vice President SCCI a market in Pakistan i.e Ice In response to a question Mr. added that with the effective Hockey, etc, so such items were Majid Raza Bhutta, Former operations of Sialkot Tannery exported to other countries. President SCCI replied that Zones, it was projected that Mian Naeem Javed, Former utilization of genuine leather Leather Industry Sialkot would President SCCI answered that had not been affected, as it surge its share in exports up to it was regretful that import and was the essential item for US$ 2 Billion. export policies were not much manufacturing leather shoes. favorable in the past. Sialkot He informed that Leather In response to another question Industry was majorly relied products secured their position Mr. Fazal Jilani, Former on value addition, so the strict in the market of artificial President SCCI replied that policies were a major reason for Industry of Sialkot timely affecting the export of Sialkot.

98 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Visit of Mr. Khadan Dheen Gulled Commercial Attaché Somalia Embassy in Islamabad-Pakistan

April 09, 2019

Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI), President Sialkot Chamber welcomed Mr. Khadan Dheen Gulled Commercial Attaché, Embassy of Somalia, Islamabad-Pakistan at SCCI. He further said that Somalia was a Brother Muslim Country with around 99% of Muslim population in majority. He said that Somalia was an import- oriented country which imported all most all products and their major exports were raw hides and leather. He said that with the help of Commercial Attaché, prior to initiating any for keenly working to promote and Sialkot Chamber would form a opportunity. facilitate trade in Africa, improve delegation to explore Somalia Ease of Doing business and after foreseeing Exhibition in He shared that China was welcome any Foreign Direct coming future, the delegation penetrating in Low Income Investment coming to Somalia would examine Somalian Countries where they were that would revive factories. market and opportunities building their warehouses He said that Somalia was associated with Sialkot Industry. and investing heavily in such considered as Central Hub for He said that SCCI would strive countries. He further said that trade in Africa. He further said to double the numbers of it was high time to explore and that Somalia had the largest Bilateral Trade with Somalia. capture the market before China livestock resource (around 5 He said that in recent times, and India took over the Industry. million) vis-à-vis leather and Somalia had the same law and He said that African countries raw hides. He said that Somalia order situation as of Pakistan. had collaboratively reduced largely imported Surgical He said that Somalia had the taxes within their region to Instruments from India and advantage of long Coastal Area Promote & Trade in Africa. He China, and Sialkot Industry had within Africa, reason being it said that looking at seriousness a huge opportunity in Somalia became a hub of trade to African of Africa, Sialkot Industry must for Surgical sector. He said Countries. He said that SCCI foresee Africa and consider it that Somalia was transforming would like more interactions future of the industry. and developing and became with Somalian and invited an opportunist market for Somalian Ambassador to SCCI. Mr. Khadan Dheen Gulled investments and trade. He Moreover, he said that Africa Commercial Attaché Somalia further said that SCCI had a was an untapped market and to to Pakistan thanked President huge experience of exports thrive Sialkot Industry needed to SCCI and admired President and Somalian Trade bodies explore untapped markets. He SCCI’s desire to work with and Chambers would foresee said that sending a delegation African Countries and guidance to improve their trade to Somalia would inquire style considering them future of figures. He said that Sialkot of doing with Somalia, banking Sialkot Industry. He said that Industry delegation must visit systems and payment methods Ministry of Commerce was Somalia in June 2019.

Annual Report 2018 - 19 99 Visit of H.E. Mr. Manuel Duran GIMENEZ-RICO Ambassador of Spain

April 10, 2019

Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI), steel etc. The President said USD. Bilateral trade could President SCCI welcomed His that both sides must ponder to be conveniently enhanced for Excellency Mr. Manuel Duran include more trade products; which Chambers of Commerce GIMENEZ-RICO, Ambassador of that bilateral trade was could play an important role by Spain to Pakistan, distinguished confined to few items. He said facilitating frequent interactions guests and members of that there was an emergent of private sectors. Chamber in the meeting. He need for diversification of He proposed that both countries said that Spain and Pakistan exports as both countries should facilitate single country had enjoyed cordial relations had tremendous potential for trade exhibitions and encourage since the independence of business communities at both frequent exchanges of trade Pakistan. Pakistan’s major sides. He informed that the delegations. In order to enhance exports items to Spain total trade volume between private sector and contact, The included textiles products, the two countries according President requested that the while Pakistan’s major imports to Ministry of Commerce, procedure for issuance of visas items from Spain included Pakistan was around 1.16 (B) to businesspersons might be machinery and parts, chemical USD with balance of trade in relaxed. He also suggested to materials and products, iron, favor of Pakistan at 952 (M) facilitate investments and joint

100 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry members for Visa facilitation and any other required service. He assured that his team and the Embassy would work on the opportunities of Joint Venture for both the countries. He emphasized that both SCCI and Embassy should create a liaison to work for the promotion of mutual trade relation and other new opportunities. In response to a question Ambassador said that media didn’t highlight the positive facts and it affected the goodwill of a country. He appreciated the Sialkot Industry for their tremendous social welfare ventures in the value added and thanked him for the projects e.g. CSDO etc. he industries of Sialkot, which said visit. He applauded the congratulated the Sialkot would be beneficial for both official documentary of Sialkot Business Community for the sides. Chamber; admired all the achievement to start an Airline sectors of Sialkot Industry and “AIRSIAL”. He assured that he Mr. Manuel Duran GIMENEZ- the potential & energy of the would communicate the positive RICO, Ambassador of Spain City. He said that the bilateral facts & figures about Sialkot, thanked the Office Bearers of relation between both the Pakistan and even about his visit Sialkot Chamber of Commerce countries was below potential, to SCCI. He also congratulated & Industry for their warm as Sialkot was producing diverse Mr. Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI), welcome & hospitality. He range of products and could President SCCI for receiving shared about his visit to M/S penetrate in Spanish market. “Sitara-e-Imtiaz” from the Forward Sports Pvt. Ltd. that He introduced his counselor Government of Pakistan, and was impressive. He appreciated and visa section and welcomed said that it was the proud Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI) the Sialkot Chamber and its moment for the whole City.

Annual Report 2018 - 19 101 Visit of Mr. Mohsin Raza Chief Executive Officer GEPCO

April 11, 2019

Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI) (SI), President Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry warmly welcomed the Honorable guest Mr. Mohsin Raza, Chief Executive Officer GEPCO, Gujranwala and Haji Muhammad Ashraf, Superintendent Engineer GEPCO, Sialkot and thanked them for visiting Sialkot Chamber. He informed that the Criteria should be defined for early implementation of Electricity Reduced Tariff to Zero Rated Sector under S.R.O 06(1) more than on businesses were Xens and S.Es to accept online 2019 for members firm of this working in one factory premises applications of new connection Chamber. He suggested that for manufacturing of different and to ensure it to issue a list of Industrial Dominated nature of items by Informing demand notices through online feeders should be generated that they are making efforts system in minimum time. by the coordination of Chamber for facilitation of industrialist as industries of Sialkot were of Sialkot and started a project He shared regarding scattered all around the city. “Ease of Doing Business” and in implementation of Electricity He requested to ensure 8 hours this regard proposal has been Reduced Tariff to Zero Rated uninterruptable electricity handed over to Ministry for Sector under above said S.R.O supply on all industrial Finance for approval. he informed that GEPCO would dominated feeders of Sialkot provide subsidy to all members during working hours as per Mr. Mohsin Raza thanked the who would submit the Zero procedure adopted by previous President for his warm welcome Rated certificate to the Revenue government. He also requested and hospitality extended to Department of GEPCO after that Sialkot Chamber should him. He said that present obtaining from relevant FBR be on board before scheduling Government was also working Office. Moreover, he informed load shedding on all industrial with the vision to give maximum that the issue of ban on dominated feeders during facilitation to industry in order issuance of two meters in one Ramadan and afterwards in to enhance export turnover factory premises, he informed case of shortage of electricity which was the main reason that that in this regard, GEPCO was supply from national grid. Ministry of Energy, Government bound to comply under the strict of Pakistan had issued S.O.Ps circular issued from He suggested that WAPDA Electricity Reduced Tariff to Zero WAPDA head office, Lahore should play role as facilitator Rated Sector under S.R.O 06(1) and informed that above said instead of regulator, (customer 2019 on special instructions of circular was issued by NEPRA and seller relationship should the honorable Prime Minister due to difference of tariff impact be built among GEPCO Staff of Pakistan for facilitation of on revenue. He further said and Electricity consumers of zero rated export sectors. that GEPCO would appreciate GEPCO to provide best and He informed that GEPCO if Sialkot Chamber may take earliest possible facilitation was working on the vision of up that issue with appropriate of customers). He enquired Prime Minister of Pakistan forum for its reversal. He had about the forum for taking up for maximum facilitation of already instructed concerned the issue of “ban of issuing industrial consumers of GEPCO Xens to expedite the process two meters in one factory for which GEPCO had started of pending electrification of premises” as industry of Sialkot online demand notice issuing Tannery Zone. was based on SMEs where system and instructed all of his

102 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Visit of Mr. Matthias Theis Honorary Consul of Pakistan for the State of NRW, Germany

April 15, 2019

Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI), the gap of misunderstanding further added that marketing President SCCI welcomed regarding political instability, companies already working Mr. Matthias Theis Honorary economical recession and there could also be hired for the Consul of Pakistan for the state peril of doing business in same purpose. of NRW, Germany to SCCI. He Pakistan. He further added that informed that exporters from there was no ideal situation He shared that Mr. Martin Sialkot Industry were frequent for business in any country. Kobler, Former German traveler to Germany and were He also said that Marketing Ambassador created a positive exhibited multiple exhibitions Companies were need of the image of Pakistan. He added like ISPO, A+A Trade Fair and time and only away forward that the Ambassador almost Medica Trade Fair, etc. He for Sialkot Industry to survive. travelled whole Pakistan and further added that Chinese had He also said that Honorary communicated that Pakistan followed exemplary model of Consul Mr. Matthias Theis was a safe country to visit, invest hiring marketing companies should assist Sialkot Industry and travel. He said that we had and having their warehouses by marketing its products experienced that most of the top facilities in a particular country. in Germany and arranging brands were not allowing their He also said that Sialkot facilities of warehouses where top management to travel to Industry needed to follow from products of industry Pakistan, which had created a the footsteps of the Chinese could be distributed. He said hurdle to grow Sialkot’s market. nation. He said that although, that in collaboration with the He said that China’s working Pakistan was going through Honorary Consul, Pakistan style was a proven success political issues but a marketing owned marketing companies from last decades and Sialkot company in abroad could bridge could also be established. He Industry must follow the same

Annual Report 2018 - 19 103 their official website on which their diplomatic activities were shown to the house. He further stated that Germany was considered fifth largest Bilateral Trade partner of Pakistan. He further presented a DW documentary where his office committed to portray a positive image of Pakistan in due favor of business community. He said that he also assisted Pakistan exporters by arranging their business to business meeting with potential CEOs and Executives of importers companies in Germany. He also facilitated surgical importers pattern to grow. Moreover, brands. He shared that Pakistan of Pakistani origin and also he said that delegation could needed to follow the same path did the job of connecting also visit Germany from as China did in recent years, companies with Pakistani Sialkot to see the progress, Chinese foreigners did vigorous exporter, especially Sialkot such initiatives would provide marketing of Chinese products Industry. He appreciated the Pakistan a surety of selling and also facilitated them in idea of President SCCI and also their products on the stop building warehouses in abroad. assured him to pledge his good- from designated warehouses. office support in this regard. Furthermore, he said that most Mr. Matthias Theis Honorary He said that Honorary Consul of foreigners now get surprised Consul of Pakistan for the state already had a Competence to see actual face of Pakistan of NRW, Germany thanked Mr. Centre with designated floors by the visiting and they often President for warm welcome at for Business to Consumer and endorsed Pakistan being a safe SCCI. He shared that his good- Business to Business meetings. country to visit and invest. He office was facilitating exhibitors He informed that TEXPO Trade further added that Pakistan, coming from Pakistan for fair/ Show 2019 was a wonderful especially Sialkot, needed exhibitions like ISPO, A+A Trade event and had portrayed a such PR building to regain the Show, and Medica Trade Fair. He positive image of Pakistan. trust of foreign investor and briefed the house by presenting

104 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Visit of a Delegation from UK Pakistan Chamber of Commerce & Industry

April 15, 2019

Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI), President Sialkot Chamber warmly welcomed President UK-PCCI along with his team to SCCI. He appreciated the robust efforts of UKPCCI for the promotion and facilitation the bilateral trade between Pakistan and the UK. He promised to strengthen the relations between the two countries. He stressed that Overseas must invest in Pakistan, they must play their role in the modern technology transfer to Pakistan. He mentioned that due to • Marketing companies • Halal meat/ increasing labor prices in established in the UK plants China, the foreign firms were dedicated to Sialkot Industry • Surgical and beauty looking forward to the countries • Joint ventures instruments export which offered lower labor and • Warehouse facilities and • Agriculture and Dairy production cost. Pakistan must Logistics facilitation Products take advantage of the said • Technology transfer to • Educational courses and opportunity. He further added Sialkot other technical courses. that the Marketing companies in the UK must market Sialkot Mr. Amjad Khan, President Majid Raza Bhutta, Former Industry and its goods in the UKPCCI, thanked the President President SCCI thanked UKPCCI UK. He also mentioned that SCCI for warm welcome and and the house for gracing the Oversea Chinese investment hospitality. He vowed to increase event with their presence. played an important role the cooperation between the He took pride in sharing that in the development of the two countries for the promotion Sialkot was the only city in modern Chinese Market. In and facilitation of bilateral Pakistan that was producing terms of investment regarding trade. Mian Waheed ur Rehman for more than 100 International technology transfer, marketing, (Secretary General, UKPCCI) brands of different sectors. He and warehousing facilities mentioned that the agenda of further shared the emergent worldwide, Sialkot also required UKPCCI’s visit was to explore need for a 5-star hotel in Sialkot the same role to be played by the investment potential and as the international flights the overseas Pakistanis. opportunities in the following avoided landing in Sialkot. He sectors; mentioned that opening the Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI), Kartarpur border for Sikh President SCCI anticipated • Tourism sector pilgrims would also attract lots UKPCCI to extend its dedicated • IT sector of tourism business. It was a support in the following Sialkot • Real estate (focused on big business and investment Industrial sectors; restaurants and hotels) opportunity.

Annual Report 2018 - 19 105 Visit of Mr. Muhammad Reza Nazeri Consul General of Iran in Lahore, Pakistan

April 26, 2019

Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI), new gates of Bilateral Trade. Iran. President SCCI welcomed He said that the meeting would Mr. Muhammad Reza Nazeri open new avenues of bilateral Mr. Muhammad Reza Nazeri, Consul General of Iran in trade including streamlining Consul General of Iran in Lahore Lahore for paying his first effective logistic channels thanked President SCCI and its visit to Sialkot Chamber and between both of the countries, members for the warm welcome also for choosing Sialkot over likewise a consensus on and providing the opportunity other cities for his first ever practical measures would be to share his thoughts and diplomatic visit in Pakistan. decided for mutually beneficial best wishes. He also thanked He said that unfortunately ways ahead. He also said that female members of SCCI for Bilateral Trade between Iran SCCI would like to interact with their presence and welcome and Pakistan was just USD 400 Consulate of Iran in order to do extended to the lady guests. Million annually and Pakistan, private partnerships with Iran He said that before coming especially exporters from in terms of Joint Ventures of to Pakistan, he had served Sialkot wished to promote Trade Iranian Private ventures with in China and also had done with two brotherly country. He Sialkot Industry. Moreover, he his diplomatic assignments also referred to recent visit of said that under his supervision, in other countries as well, as Mr. Imran Khan Prime Minister a trade delegation to Iran would Diplomatic Attaché. He said that of Pakistan to Iran wherein be sent in near future to look Iran also comprised of small dialogues to promote trade had for market opportunities and and medium industry, similar taken place, which would open avenues of mutual interest in model he had experienced in

106 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Abdul Razzak Dawood Pakistan had mutually decided to formulate a common committee to promote trade. He wished that up to his next visit to Sialkot Chamber, delegations from both countries could be made to proceed to the next step of dialogues.

Mr. Khawar Anwar Khawaja, Former President SCCI said that, both countries had immense political pressure from foreign elements who did not want to see good China and he was surprised Industries on both sides. To do relations between Pakistan and and overwhelmed by knowing so he urged that “Our industries Iran. Despite such pressures that Sialkot had contributed need to get engaged in future’’. stakeholders of both sides 2.0 Billion USD annually to Furthermore, he said that it had to see avenues of trade. the exports of Pakistan. He was unfortunate that enemies He said that he believed Iran added that such a contribution of Pakistan and Iran did not had much more potential to economy was evidence of want to see both countries due to low transition and quality centric nature of people collaborating in future. He also transportation cost and within of Sialkot. He also said that like said that his office would pledge 24 hours commodities could be Pakistan, Iran was also fond of full support to SCCI and Sialkot exchanged. He also said that spiritual thoughts and writings industry, since Iran organized both countries could collaborate of Dr. Allama Muhammad Iqbal. multiple exhibitions and he in field of automobile and at He also added that Iranians would also foresee delegations technology front and in coming were mostly inspired by His from Sialkot coming to Iran and future a delegation of trade writings and messages to Iranian delegations coming to and cultural exchange could Muslim Ummah. Moreover, he visit trade shows in Pakistan. be sent to Iran to see Islamic said that he was quite hopeful He referred to the recent visit of heritage and explore market that Pakistan and Iran could Mr. Imran Khan Prime Minister opportunities. overcome shortcomings of Pakistan, advisor to PM Mr.

Annual Report 2018 - 19 107 Visit of Mr. Yury M. Kozlov Trade Representative, Russian Federation

May 07, 2019

Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI), President SCCI welcomed Mr. Yury M. Kozlov, Trade Representative, Russian Federation in Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry. He said that Pakistan was merely exporting goods of worth 200 Million USD to Russia. He further said that Exporters from Sialkot could not have interaction with prospective client so SCCI was working to hire some marketing companies in Russia for selling/ marketing products of Sialkot Industry (SCCI would formally request REPRESENTATION OF several meetings but his office a reason that Pakistan and THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION was keen to propagate the Trade Russia did not share needed in Pakistan to share details span between two Countries. He terms with each other due to of marketing companies in shared that Russian Retail Week lack of interaction. He further Russia). He added that it would was one of the largest Trade added that getting business be a forthcoming opportunity Fair in Russia being organized visa was tough and hectic job, to better match Exporters of in 3-8 June 2019 in Moscow. He most of the time visa would Sialkot with Russian Importers said that he would be foreseeing get expired in completing the that would increase the volume participation of SCCI’s members documentation. Mr. Yury M. of the Bilateral Trade. Moreover, in the event wherein meeting Kozlov, Trade Representative he sought that his office could with key retail owners of the replied that he understood facilitate in simplifying the visa Russia would be participating the hurdles being faced by processing in order to make it in the event. He further said Exporters of Sialkot and his easy for business community that he could arrange business office would take necessary to get Business Visa and also to business meetings of retail steps to facilitate Sialkot to work on FTA to utilize raw owners with Exporters of Industry on Visa Regime and material i.e. free custom duty, Sialkot. building direct relation between etc. Central Bank to Russia and Mr. Fazal jilani, Former Pakistan. He also assured that Mr. Yury M. Kozlov, Trade President SCCI & Chairman he would share the details Representative thanked AIRSIAL said that some of the and information required by President SCCI for the welcome companies who were involved Sialkot Chamber, so that their extended and said that the in doing business with Russia members could be facilitated. progress in development of the used indirect Channels, being Bilateral trade was slow despite

108 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Iftar dinner for Fund Raising

May 11, 2019

An Iftar Dinner was hosted by The Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry at Grace Marquee, Sialkot Cantt. The primary Objective of the aforementioned program was to raise funds for the welfare/ charity organizations operating in Sialkot. The said social occasion was presided by Mr. Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI) (SI), President SCCI and hosted by Mian Khalil Ahmed.

Mr. Khawaja Masud remarkable step taken by Akhtar (SI) (SI), President SCCI The fundraising began after Mr. Zahid Latif Malik, Former appreciated the initiative taken the address of the Mr. Khawaja President SCCI and believed by Mr. Zahid Latif Malik, Former Masud Akhtar (SI) (SI) President that it would always be President SCCI and thanked SCCI, and received contributions remembered in golden words. the honorable guests for their of the major stakeholders of He further shared different presence. He shared that funds the Sialkot Industry i.e Mr. welfare organizations were raised under the umbrella Khawaaaja Masud Akhtar (SI) facing issues and it was really of KHAWAJA ZAKA-UD-DIN President SCCI, Mr. Waqas tough for them to function with TRUST were managed by Sialkot Akram Awan, Senior Vice very limited financial resources. Chamber. He also appreciated President SCCI, Amir Hamid He further added that every the efforts of Mr. Qaisar Baryar, Bhatti Vice President SCCI, Dr. year organizations from other who dispersed the funds Nauman Idrees Butt, Mr. Pervaiz cities took a major portion of transparently among various Ahmed Khan, Mr. Mian Khalil the funds. He hoped that such welfare organizations. Ahmed, Mr. Qaisar Iqbal Biryar, remarkable activities would Mr. Mian Muhammad Riaz, Mr. continue in the future. Mr. Qaisar Baryar shared that a Khawar Khawaja along with Mr. state of the art ambulance with Zahid Latif Malik collected an In the end, Mr. Khawaja Masud latest medical facilities was amount of PKR 28 Millions from Akhtar (SI), President SCCI once furnished by Sialkot Chamber, the business community of the again thanked all the honorable he further shared that the said Sialkot. guests for their graceful ambulance was handed over to presence and appreciated their 1122 by signing a Memorandum Honorable guest, Mr. Riaz- significant contributions for the of Understanding (MoU) ud-Din Sheikh cherished the splendid cause, and expressed between the Sialkot Chamber vigorous efforts of the Sialkot his hope that this would and 1122. He mentioned that the Chamber along with Sialkot continue in future also. funds raised in the previous year Industry for the welfare of were dispersed transparently. the region. He valued the

Annual Report 2018 - 19 109 Awareness Seminar on Quality & Lean Practices

May 18, 2019

Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI), Cost, Delivery, Design, etc.) of measurable. Reliability; President Sialkot Chamber of their stakeholders including likelihood of the product Commerce & Industry warmly customers consistently for that it would not fail welcomed the M/s Kaizen Quest competitive edge (an advantage within a specific period. team. over their competitors). He Conformance; “Degree explained the key points that to which a product’ meet Engr. Mureed Abbas, Trainer differentiated one organization established standards”. & Principal Consultant of from others. He threw the light Durability, “A measure of M/s Kaizen Quest Institute on the following points; product life” / Expected of Professional Development Product Life After so many (KQIPD) conducted an • The quality was hours of use, the filament awareness seminar on Lean defined as perfection in of a light bulb burns up and management at Sialkot compliance with policies the bulb must be replaced. Chamber and thanked and procedures while the guests for their timely maintaining the consistency • Organizations worked participation. He said that with eliminating the waste. on “Process Approach” the basic purpose of any where Processes were organization was profit • Dimensions of Product Managed (Design, Control, maximization. He said that Quality comprise of the & Improve) to deliver Quality Organizations fulfilled the following features; primary Products and Services changing requirements (Quality, characteristics that were as per requirements of

110 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry the customers Nearly focused on continually given resources) Typical everything an organization seeking to achieve higher efficiency measures include does, could be viewed as a levels of performance in things such as manpower process” the processes, (reduced productivity, cost per unit, variations, higher yields, process efficiency, and costs • A “process” could be fewer defects, and errors of staff and manpower. defined as a “set of and so on). Some of the (Lean) interrelated or interacting tools were DoE, Process activities, which transforms Flow Charting, F MEA, • The process was adaptable inputs into outputs”. SWOT Analysis, PEST when it remains effective Analysis, 5S, Gap Analysis, and efficient in the face • Process Management Implementation of future of the many changes that involved planning and state VSM, etc. occur over time. administering the activities necessary to achieve a high • A standard was a document Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI) level of performance in key that provided requirements, (SI), President SCCI thanked business processes, and specifications, guidelines the team of M/s Kaizen Quest identifying opportunities or characteristics that for conducting the seminar at for improving quality and could be used consistently Sialkot Chamber and hoping operational performance to ensure that materials, that local industry would adopt and ultimately customer products, processes, and Lean Practices and get benefits satisfaction. services were fit for their from the information shared. purpose. (WASO). • Process Control focuses In response to a question, he on assessing whether the • The process was effective if replied that lean practices processes performed as the output meets customer could be applied to any planned process output needs. Typical effectiveness organization regardless of was on target. If not, take measures include things what their operations were. He corrective action some of such as market share, further elaborated that lean the tools were SPC (Control customer satisfaction, practices helped to reduce the Charts, Problem Solving revenue, and time to unnecessary practices and Techniques, Control Plan, market. (Quality, Six Sigma) resulted in improved quality at Audits, TPM, Training, and less cost. Process Capability Studies. • It was efficient when it was effective at the least cost • Process improvement (ability to operate within

Annual Report 2018 - 19 111 Visit of Mr. Hafiz Mumtaz Ahmed Provincial Minister for Excise, Taxation and Narcotics Control Department, Government of the Punjab

May 07, 2019

Mr. Khawaja Masud Akhtar import raw materials and (SI), President, Sialkot While referring to the economic inputs in a cost effective Chamber of Commerce and and tax issues relating to the manner. It was explained Industry, welcomed Mr. Hafiz Government of the Punjab, he that 1.15% infrastructure Mumtaz Ahmed, Provincial emphasized to; cess implemented by Minister, Excise, Taxation and Sindh Government and Narcotics Control Department, i) Rationalize Minimum 0.90% cess imposed by Government of the Punjab. He Valuation rates (DC rates) the Punjab Government shared growing concerns of of the properties situated were unjustified as vehicles the business community on in District Sialkot and bring carrying the cargo were the economic policies being them at par with DC rates already paying heavy Toll introduced by the Federal notified for properties Taxes at National Highways. Government as they were situated in adjacent seriously hurting the export districts. iii) Rationalize notified sector. He requested the extended areas of Municipal honourable Minister to voice ii) Abolish Punjab Corporation Sialkot, so that their concerns to political Infrastructure Development the areas brought into the leadership, so that concerns of Cess on temporary jurisdiction of Municipal the business community could imports, so that the Corporation Sialkot were be effectively addressed. export businesses could not simply charged higher

112 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry tax rates of Municipal department was reaching out to iii) No new tax was being Corporation but also the people through visits to their introduced. provided with the amenities representative organizations commensurate to their for restoration of trust and iv) A new internet/mobile status. confidence of the taxpayers. app was being introduced While referring to the issue of to provide facilitation to Mr. Hafiz Mumtaz Ahmed, higher DC rates, he assured the taxpayers to enable Provincial Minister, Excise, to take up the matter with the them pay their excise and Taxation and Narcotics Control provincial cabinet to resolve the provincial taxes through Department, Government issue. debit/credit card from the of the Punjab, thanked the comfort of their office/home President and members of He highlighted salient features without having to visit any the business community for of the upcoming budget of the tax department. their warm welcome. He Punjab as follows; said that facilitation to the In response to a question, he businesses was prime focus i) Luxury tax on vehicles said that persons deputed on of their Government, so that was being abolished as enforcement usually had a fixed maximum tax collection could it resulted in transfer of mindset and it was usually be ensured to carry on affairs of registration of vehicles to difficult to change them. He the Government and undertake Islamabad Capital Territory. however said that Government development projects. He It was informed that before of the Punjab was introducing apprised that more than 80% of implementation of tax by an app that would be linked the tax collected by the Punjab the previous Government, to all the toll plazas and the Government was transferred to estimated 12000 vehicles safe cities developed under the District Governments as per were being registered in the safe cities project, to automate rules of business and various Punjab, which number had detection of tax non-paid surveys were being conducted to reduced to around 3000, and vehicles. As a result, human know the priority development had resulted in loss of token intervention would be limited areas in the light of feedback of tax on vehicles as well. only to the cases flagged by the the people. He said that people automatic system. were generally reluctant to ii) Property Tax on houses fulfill their tax obligations due occupied by the widows was to various factors, whereas, tax being waived.

Annual Report 2018 - 19 113 Visit of Mr. Muhammad Ashraf Khan Managing Director BSC - State Bank of Pakistan

June 17, 2019

Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI) , Availing the presence of MD • Dealing with speculators in President of Sialkot Chamber of State Bank of Pakistan, The exchange market Commerce & Industry warmly President Chamber requested welcomed Mr. Muhammad his kind consideration on • Rationalizing DLTL service Ashraf Khan, MD BSC - SBP, following key points: charges by the Commercial Mr. Shaukat Zaman - ED/Group Banks which ranging from Head Forex & Development • Compliance on clean minimum 500 to 1% Finance, Mr. Javaid Iqbal – lending facility of SBP by the Director CMD, Mr. Javaid Ahmed Commercial Banks • Approval for other Bhatti - Regional Head/ CM commercial banks to SBP BSC Lahore, distinguished • Sharing of information on offer services in export guests and members of currency exchange rate processing zone Sialkot Chamber. He expressed his determination especially as only UBL was providing gratitude to the Managing Chinese yuan to PKR services. Director SBP for sparing time and visiting Sialkot Chamber for • Role of State Bank in • Status of Exim Bank discussion with the members clearance of sales tax on issues pertaining to Banking refunds after withdrawal • Discouraging Sector. of SRO 1125 by the federal Bancassurance and government stressing on Commercial

114 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Banks to focus on their encouraging them to primary services • The Chinese Currency Rate explore unconventional determination was being markets. • Constituting a Bankers done through Currency forum chaired by Swap Agreement recently • He informed that the issue SBP Sialkot including signed between the two with Bancassurance was representations from Sialkot nations. He also shared that that the banks were not chamber and commercial Forward Booking facility had sharing TOR’s and other banks. The forum would also been made available information to clients. discuss issues export sector from 1 to 12 months. He said that the matter and would propose the would be considered and same to SBP HQs for policy • Issue of Service Charges Banks would be directed making and resolution on DLTL would be worked to share complete TOR’s of upon. The MD SBP the products and services • Exemption on charging requested SCCI to share offered to clients. of withholding tax from data of rates being charged exporters on transactions with the Chief Manager • On Exemption of WHT on executed for participation in SBP Sialkot for onward Transactions for Trade trade fairs submission to SBP HQs. Fairs, Mr. Ashraf Mehmood Khan shared that the matter • Allowing the exporters to • Regarding approval of other was not in the domain manage TT’s of smaller commercial banks to offer of SBP. He added that it amounts to import samples services in EPZ, MD SBP was related to Federal for reverse engineering said that the State Bank Government as the SBP would approve the banks was only the agent of Mr. Muhammad Ashraf Khan, submitting the applications implementing policies set Managing Director, State Bank for providing services in the by the former. of Pakistan thanked Khawaja Zones. Masud Akhtar (SI) (SI) for his • He endorsed the idea warm welcome. The MD SBP • The MD SBP informed of Bankers Forum and appreciated the role of SCCI the house that the EXIM Directed CM SBP Sialkot for being the most dynamic Bank had been established to work out on TOR’s and Chamber in Pakistan having and would be fully include the Representation worked tremendously in the operational soon. He said from SCCI. field of Corporate Social that hiring President of Responsibility. He appreciated the organization was in • The MD requested the SCCI the proactive nature of the progress. He further shared to share the proposal of TTs business community of Sialkot that EXIM Bank would on Import of Samples with and its contribution of more provide services like Credit maximum limit in order for than 14% to the National Guarantees to Exporters SBP to deliberate upon. Economy through exports. Addressing to the points of the President SCCI, Mr. Muhammad Ashraf Khan shared the following:

• The point of Clean Lending Facility was valid and that the Government was establishing Pakistan Credit Guarantee Corporation with a capital of 6 (B) which would serve to give guarantees to the Commercial Banks for SMEs to ensure timely access to finance. The Corporation would be operational within 6 to 7 months the MD added.

Annual Report 2018 - 19 115 Visit of H.E. Mr. Iwan Suyudhie Amri Ambassador of Republic of Indonesia to Pakistan

July 12, 2019

Mr. Waqas Akram Awan, Senior efforts towards promotion of of Commerce, Pakistan, total Vice President SCCI welcomed bilateral relations especially trade volume between the His Excellency. MR. IWAN trade. Therefore, in order to two countries in FY 2017-18 SUYUDHIE AMRI, Ambassador overcome the problems for was USD 2.8 (B) with balance of the Republic of Indonesia to progressive development in of trade strongly in favor of Pakistan, Honorable Officials every sector, it was important Indonesia. However, there was of the Embassy, distinguished to collaborate and develop a lot of potential to increase guests and members of a coordinated approach and this volume of trade. Both this Chamber. He said that strategy for the betterment of sides needed to ponder on Indonesia, the largest populated the people of the two brotherly these factors for bringing country in the Islamic world, countries, Mr. Awan said improvements. He believed was a true friend of Pakistan; that the recent Government to both Islamic countries were The Senior Vice President said Government interactions and striving for worldwide peace, that both the countries had talks of enhancing PTA to FTA promoting tolerance, fighting to agreed to setup a mechanism would greatly boost the bilateral get rid of terrorism, extremism to ensure implementation of trade promotion activities of and endeavoring to settle existing agreements, aimed at the two countries and business problems and differences by substantial increase of two- communities of both sides peaceful means and dialogues. way trade. The potential was should exploit this opportunity. He mentioned that both huge and commitment from He said that Sialkot Chamber Pakistan and Indonesia were both sides was strong. He of Commerce & Industry and committed and making joint said that as per the Ministry the Embassy should develop a

116 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry exporters of Palm Oil, whereas Pakistan was a large consumer of the same product; trade could be enhanced in that segment.

He told about a delegation would visit to Pakistan from Indonesia in coming months to discuss about FTAs and its future impacts on both economies. He told about an exhibition would be planned in Jakarta, Indonesia on 16-19 Oct, 2019; he welcomed the business community of Sialkot for the mutually beneficial long term in Karachi and Islamabad etc. said exhibition. He assured that relationship. He also told about the total he would work to explore the numbers of Indonesian students opportunities for Joint Ventures H.E. MR. IWAN SUYUDHIE were studying in Pakistan. He between both the countries. He AMRI, Ambassador of the said that thousands of students said that cooperation between Republic of Indonesia to were also studying in Madrisa Chambers and Embassies Pakistan thanked Mr. Waqas (Raiwind, Lahore); and he should be focused, he assured Akram Awan, Senior Vice emphasized that educational to facilitate Pakistani business President, SCCI and showed relations between both the community in terms of visa his gratitude for giving him countries could be enhanced facilitation and another the opportunity to visit Sialkot with the mutual efforts I right facilitation required. The envoy Chamber and interact with the direction. He mentioned the explained the procedure to business community of Sialkot. progressing trade & economic apply the visa for Indonesia He told that Indonesia had relations of Indonesia and in detail. He thanked again to already signed many MOUs with Pakistan. He shared that all the members of SCCI and different Pakistani Universities Indonesia was one of the larger appreciated the hospitality.

Annual Report 2018 - 19 117 Visit of H.E. Mr. Furqat Sidiqov Ambassador of Uzbekistan to Pakistan

July 22, 2019

Khawaja Masud Akhtar (SI) to be taken in order to improve railways were being built by President, Sialkot Chamber bilateral trade. Uzbekistan. He further added of Commerce & Industry that the idea of the Trilateral warmly welcomed H.E. Mr. H.E. Mr. Furqat Sidiqov, Chamber Of Commerce was Furqat Sidiqov, Ambassador Ambassador of Uzbekistan offered by Uzbekistan to of Uzbekistan to Pakistan, thanked the President, for and Pakistan Mr. Zafar Akhmedov DHM, the warm welcome to Sialkot Governments. It would resolve Mr. Jasur Saidahmedov Third Chamber of Commerce & the issues that hinder the trade secretary and members of the Industry. He shared that Uzbek in the region. Uzbek had a free Chamber. He said that both Government of Uzbekistan trade agreement with Russia, countries must strive to transfer was working on ease of doing so it would open new horizons theirspecilities into a strategic business. He informed that for the Pakistani manufacturers partnership covering all areas Uzbek market was open for and exporters to penetrate of bilateral relations. “Dedicated the investment in the leather in Russian and Central Asian efforts are needed from both sector, surgical sector, martial market through investment in sides to further improve two- arts equipment, sports apparel, Uzbekistan. way trade.” Mr. Masud added. and all type of and other While sharing his views on gloves. He said that Government Mr. Waqas Akram Awan, Senior bilateral trade between both of Uzbekistan was keen to have Vice President SCCI said that countries, he stressed that joint ventures in these sectors. the access of Made in Pakistan immediate steps were needed He further informed that logistic products to Uzbekistan Market

118 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry state-led investments, and export of natural gas, gold, petroleum, coal, uranium, silver, copper, lead and zinc, tungsten, and cotton provides a significant share of foreign exchange growth. Belt road initiatives make the position of Uzbekistan in the promotion of trade among the region. Uzbekistan was offering incentives for foreign investors especially in Special Economic Zones, tax exemption was different for special sectors. He further shared that more than 97 companies from Pakistan had moved to may be facilitated through were excellent in terms of Uzbekistan. warehouses and dedicated quality, manufactured based marketing companies for on international standards and H.E. Mr. Furqat Sidiqov again the Leather Goods, Surgical certifications. The dedicated thanked President SCCI and Instruments, Work Wear & marketing companies and said that he would share the Gloves, and Sports Goods warehouses in Uzbekistan list of companies but the & Apparel, Martial Arts could play a huge role in market businesses in the Uzbekistan Gear, Footwear and Cutlery expansion for Sialkot Industry. Republic were more interested Instruments, as those products in Joint Ventures. Their had huge demands in Uzbek In response to a question, Mr. major industries were textile Market. He further added Zafar Akhmedov mentioned processing, food processing, that the proposed solution of that Uzbekistan was the world’s machine building, metallurgy, logistics could boost up trade fifth-largest cotton exporter and mining hydrocarbon extraction, between the two countries. seventh-largest producer. He and chemical industry. He further mentioned that the said that Uzbekistan’s growth products produced in Sialkot had been driven primarily by

Annual Report 2018 - 19 119 Training Workshop / Seminars During the year 2018 - 19

1. Awareness Session on Breast Cancer 13. Seminar on ‘Quality and Lean held on October 19, 2018. Management’ with collaboration of Kaizen 2. Seminar on “The Progress of Turkish Quest held on April 06, 2019. Economy and Social Change in Turkey 14. 10-Days Training Session on and Islam in Modern Turkey” by the three ‘E-Commerce’ for Women Entrepreneurs Turkish Scholars held on November 24, of Rural Areas held on April 16, 2019. 2018. 15. Program on ‘IQBAL DAY’ held on April 23, 3. Maritime Awareness Session by Station 2019. Commander (Navy) Lahore held on 16. Seminar on “New Horizons of Export December 24, 2018. Trade Finance” by Prima Dollar held on 4. Seminar on ‘Cyber Security’ held on April 25, 2019. December 26, 2018. 17. Seminar on “Online Tax Payment” with 5. Seminar on ‘Islamic Banking’ with the collaboration of State Bank held on May collaboration of SCCI & Meezan Bank, on 03, 2019. January 19, 2019 18. Seminar on Leather Working Group (LWG) 6. Seminar on ‘Cluster Meet-up’ for SMEs Protocol by Sialkot Tannery Association in held on January 12, 2019. collaboration with M/s. Asian Verification 7. Training Session on ‘Drawback of Local and Sialkot Chamber held on May 07, Taxes and Levies Order for Exporters’ by 2019. State Bank of Pakistan held on January 19. 2nd Session on ‘Lean Management’ by 07, 2019. Kaizen Quest held on May 18, 2019. 8. Training Workshop on ‘Occupational 20. Seminar on ‘ERP system’ organized by Health and Safety Environment’ held on Abacus Consulting held on June 19, 2019. February 12, 2019. 21. Awareness session on ‘Assets declaration 9. Seminar on ‘Facebook Marketing for scheme 2019’ held on June 20, 2019. SMEs’ in Collaboration with the SMEDA 22. Round Table session with Gallup Pakistan held on March 19, 2019. held on June 21, 2019 10. Seminar on ‘EU Medical Devices 23. Seminar on Cyber Security by Catalyic Regulations (MDR)’ organized by Consulting Pvt Ltd Lahore held on July 3, Departmental Committee on Surgical 2019. Industry/Veterinary/Personal Care 24. Seminar by Xavor Corporation was held Industry held on February 26, 2019. on July 15, 2019. 11. 3rd Awareness Session of City World- 25. Seminar on “Islamic Banking Awareness” Wide Partnership for Water Stewardship by Bankislami Pakistan was held on July and Sustainable Water use held on March 24, 2019. 28, 2019. 26. One Day Training Program “NTN & STRN 12. Seminar on ‘Leadership Skill Registration & E-filling of Returns” held Development’ held on April 04, 2019. on July 30, 2019.

120 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Photographs of different Occasions During the year 2018 - 19

Annual Report 2018 - 19 121 Training Workshop / Seminars During the year 2018 - 19

122 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Photographs of different Occasions During the year 2018 - 19

Annual Report 2018 - 19 123 Training Workshop / Seminars During the year 2018 - 19

124 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Photographs of different Occasions During the year 2018 - 19

Annual Report 2018 - 19 125 with Office Bearers

126 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Determined to achieve excellence in Service Delivery to our Members, the Chamber Staff is committed and dedicated in line with the agenda of this August Institution.

Annual Report 2018 - 19 127 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS For the Year Ended June 30, 2019

128 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry

Annual Report 2018 - 19 137 138 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry Annual Report 2018 - 19 139 140 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry THE SIALKOT CHAMBER OF COMMERCE & INDUSTRY

Shahrah-e-Aiwan-e-Sanat-o-Tijarat, Sialkot 51310 - Pakistan Ph: +92 52 4261881 - 3, 4265895 - 7 Fax: +92 52 4268835, 4267919 Email: [email protected] Printed by Printed [email protected]

www.scci.com.pk by Designed Shafique Rizwan

140 Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry