Pakistan to take leaf out of China’s book on productivity

As the incumbent government is set to enter its tenure’s fourth year, the business fraternity has expressed its continued dissatisfaction over the lack of local production and investment opportunities in Pakistan.

When it comes to success stories, one does not need to gaze too far as the neighbouring China and its thriving business activities across the globe remain a shining beacon of commercial success. It is not an unknown secret that China has strengthened its economy through its hard work and the dedication of the public. Chinese items enjoy immense popularity and are widely used on religious festivities and at events worldwide, including Pakistan. Chinese flags, electric bulbs, stickers, badges, artificial flowers are used on religious festivities, Eids, Christmas, Independence Day celebrations in developed and developing countries alike, such as Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bhutan, Maldives, Bangladesh, France, the US, and Germany.

The logic is plain and simple — China has made its mark in the markets of these countries by producing cheap, good-quality goods, on the back of its industries. There has been a surge in the demand for Chinese items in these countries owing to expensive labour. However, things appear dismal in Pakistan as politicians and business tycoons, apart from filling their own coffers, are growing their businesses abroad by transferring heavy investment in foreign countries. Local investment and production has seen a downward trajectory due to political instability and a rise in inflation. Sheikh Nasir, a businessman from Islamabad, opined that the former governments failed to increase electricity generation, due to which Pakistani businessmen focused their attention towards Bangladesh and several other countries.

The PML-N, during its reign, had tried to control the menace of load-shedding to a great extent, he said. Nasir lamented that the ruling government has so far failed to encourage local businessmen to invest in Pakistan. Speaking to The Express Tribune, he said that the politicians and business tycoons decry corruption, but hoarders have lumbered the nation with several problems including inflation. “How can the ruling government curb corruption? We have several institutions and market committees, yet, no one can apprehend those responsible for inflation.” A few citizens spoke to the publication regarding the issue of local production and a rise in the prices of daily use items, lamenting that the country cannot become a welfare state without reducing the prices of the essential items.

“We are inclined to use Chinese products on festivals and occasions due to their prices and good quality,” said a local named Waqas, complaining that the same cannot be said for the local produce in the country.