Traders seek help for salt, handicraft exports

Sargodha Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) President Khawaja Yasir Qayyum said on Tuesday that the Sargodha region had great potential for exploiting its salt reserves along with a robust handicraft industry for which the government's support was vital to tap the required resources.

Talking to APP, the chamber president said that he had already briefed Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan, where he highlighted the potential of Sargodha and sought his support for export promotion.

He further said that currently, Sargodha was exporting approximately 2,700 containers of salt and handicrafts annually, which was not enough when compared with its actual capability.

He pointed out that he had suggested to government high-ups to establish a dedicated platform in Pakistani embassies abroad for displaying the country's products. This way, Sargodha's salt and handicraft products can be promoted across the globe as the initiative will not only enhance their global profile but also attract new buyers and investments.

He added that Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan had appreciated the Sargodha Chamber's proposal and assured his full support for promoting exports of salt and wooden handicrafts. The minister also issued necessary orders to the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) to collaborate with the SCCI team to ensure that those industries gain the global recognition they deserve.