Sialkot SMEs set example for others to follow

21 Aug '08

2 min read

Cottage industries of Sialkot, the only export oriented city in entire Pakistan has emerged as an ideal example for many nations who are putting efforts for developing this sector.

Mr Ziaullah Mirza, Senior Vice President, Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), while sharing his views with media said that the small and medium enterprises (SMEs) of Sialkot have come a long way and have made a prominent place for itself in international market.

This has only become possible because the SMEs use high quality raw material for manufacturing export oriented goods like gloves, martial arts uniforms and military badges. The products are meant for overseas markets and are highly priced, making it impossible for local customers to buy them.

The Senior Vice President further stated that the export oriented units of Sialkot are annually earning nearly US $1 billion by shipping products in various parts of globe which is commendable. The per capita income of people living in this region has also gone up when compared to other states.

The entrepreneurs have been successful in maintaining the standards set by the international buyers under the World Trade Organization (WTO).

The second EPZ of the nation was also established in Sialkot, offering special incentives to the investors.

The exporters of the city have contributed nearly 0.25 percent against their export earnings for developing the city and building Sialkot International Airport on Build Operate and Own (BOO) basis.

Industry insiders believe that after the airport starts operations it would automatically develop socio-economic and industrial sector of Pakistan's first ever 'Golden Export Triangle' project comprising Sialkot, Gujrat and Gujranwala districts.

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