Lahore: October 25 - A delegation from the All Pakistan Paper Merchants Association (APPMA) and the Punjab Recycle Paper Association (PRPA), led by Group Leader APPMA Bao Bashir and Chairman APPMA and LCCI Executive Committee Member Ahad Amin Malik, visited the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI).
The delegation met LCCI President Faheem ur Rehman Saigol, Senior Vice President Tanveer Ahmed Sheikh, and Vice President Khurram Lodhi and congratulated them on assuming their new responsibilities.
Former LCCI Presidents, Mian Anjum Nisar, Muhammad Ali Mian, APPMA Vice Chairman Shabbir Bhatti, Zeeshan Sohail Malik, Muhammad Ajmal, Malik Ilyas, Hassan Raza, Qayyum Raza, Mian Amjad, Chaudhry Fazal Kareem, Sharafat Hussain, and Chaudhry Imran Khalid were also present. The delegation assured full cooperation with the LCCI in promoting industrial development.
LCCI President Faheem ur Rehman Saigol thanked the delegation and said that the paper industry holds a vital place in Pakistan's economy as it supports key sectors such as education, publishing, and packaging. He noted that thousands of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) depend on this industry, and reaffirmed that LCCI will continue to safeguard and promote the interests of the paper sector at every level.
He urged the government to reduce import duties on raw materials used in paper manufacturing, pointing out that high production costs are hurting local industry competitiveness in the global market. He added that lowering taxes and import duties would reduce production costs and ultimately benefit consumers.
Faheem ur Rehman Saigol further stated that reducing the sales tax on the paper sector is essential, as the current rate has increased operational costs, making it difficult for small businesses to sustain themselves.
Members of the delegation appreciated the proactive role of LCCI, saying that its leadership has become a symbol of trust for the business community. They expressed their commitment that APPMA and PRPA will continue to work with the LCCI to support policy reforms, regulatory improvements, and the resolution of industrial issues.