Paper industry seeks tax cuts to ease costs

A delegation from the All Pakistan Paper Merchants Association (APPMA) and the Punjab Recycle Paper Association (PRPA), led by APPMA Group Leader Bao Bashir and Chairman Ahad Amin Malik, visited the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) to discuss challenges faced by the paper industry and explore avenues for collaboration.

According to a statement issued on Saturday, the delegation assured full cooperation with the LCCI in promoting industrial development. LCCI President Faheemur Rehman Saigol said the paper industry plays a critical role in Pakistan's economy by supporting education, publishing, and packaging sectors, adding that thousands of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) depend on it. He reaffirmed the chamber's commitment to protecting and promoting the interests of the paper sector at every level.

He urged the government to reduce import duties on raw materials used in paper manufacturing, noting that high production costs were undermining competitiveness in the global market. Lowering taxes and import duties, he said, would bring down production costs and benefit consumers. Saigol also called for a reduction in sales tax on the paper sector, pointing out that the current rate had raised operational expenses and made survival difficult for small businesses.

The delegation appreciated the role of the LCCI, saying its leadership has earned the trust of businessmen. They pledged full cooperation with the chamber in advancing policy reforms, improving regulations, and addressing the industrial challenges confronting the paper sector.