Punjab eyes green industrial growth

Minister highlights deal with Chinese firm to manufacture solar panels

LAHORE:

Provincial Minister for Industries, Commerce, and Investment Chaudhry Shafay Hussain has said that Punjab's focus is on alternative energy and industrial growth on Friday. "An agreement with a Chinese group has been finalised for solar panel manufacturing in Punjab, while talks with Austria are advancing for small hydel projects," he announced at a Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) meeting.

LCCI President Mian Abuzar Shad, Senior Vice President Engineer Khalid Usman, and Vice President Shahid Nazir Chaudhry provided an overview of the current business landscape. The provincial minister, noting his background as an industrialist, pledged to support industry through sustainable initiatives.

He highlighted key projects, including the Punjab's largest industrial estate, FIEDMC, where significant infrastructure improvements are underway. Hussain revealed he requested the prime minister's support to establish a railway station within the estate, streamlining goods transport for local manufacturers.

The minister shared plans for a 30 MW solar power plant in Faisalabad Industrial Estate to reduce electricity costs for industries. He noted that local solar panel production with Chinese partnership would boost Punjab's green energy sector, potentially positioning it as a regional exporter.

The LCCI president underscored Punjab's substantial contribution to Pakistan's GDP, cautioning that high production costs impact the national industrial sector. He advocated for more SME support, including easier loan access and affordable land leasing policies.

Senior Vice President Usman and Vice President Chaudhry called for increased LCCI representation on industrial regulatory boards, which they believe would improve policy implementation and support for business needs.

Minister Hussain also outlined Punjab's ambitions in electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing, referencing a new electric bike plant in Sundar Industrial Estate.