Kamal urges immediate economic development in Balochistan

Commerce minister says province must realise potential as business gateway

QUETTA:

Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan has highlighted the urgent need for economic development in Balochistan, stating that the province must take advantage of its strategic position as a business gateway.

Speaking at the Quetta Chamber of Commerce and Industry, he warned of increasing challenges if seriousness is not shown toward economic progress.

Jam Kamal called for collective input on Balochistan's economic plan and emphasized initiatives for small and medium enterprises to address the region's dependence on government jobs. He noted that expensive electricity and gas hinder development due to a lack of industrial growth. The minister criticized the state of industrial zones, pointing out that even established hubs like Bostan Special Economic Zone and Quetta Industrial Zone lack adequate utilities and infrastructure.

Chamber officials, including President Haji Muhammad Ayub Maryani, presented demands such as resolving land disputes in Bostan, constructing an expo center, and organizing a trilateral trade exhibition with Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan. They also requested tax valuation discounts on Iranian imports and immediate clearance of delayed shipments.