Training through World Trade Organisation’s (WTO) Trade Facilitation Agreement provides an opportunity to understand its commercial and economic implications and the emerging multilateral trading system, according to Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) President Agha Shahab Ahmed.
He said this while speaking at the European Union (EU)-funded Trade Related Technical Assistance (TRTA II) programme on ‘WTO Agreement on Trade Facilitation: Opportunities and way forward for Pakistan’s private sector’.
Shahab added that the agreement streamlines custom procedures, improves appeal and consultation procedures and enhances the ability of traders to access information they require.
The session was organised by the EU and International Trade Centre (ITC) in association with KCCI and the Pakistan Institute of Trade and Development.
The KCCI chief further underscored that, as an important member of the global economic system, Pakistan can no longer afford to be isolated. He was of the view that in the current global economic scenario, Pakistan’s qualification as a GSP-Plus beneficiary country has given it an edge over China, Colombia, India, Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam.
“Pakistan has become the second textile- and garment-exporting country in the region after Bangladesh which enjoys duty-free access into the EU,” he added.
He said that since Pakistan’s inclusion in the scheme promises immense economic benefits, it is incumbent for all stakeholders – public and private sectors – to play their part in ensuring that the country continues to benefit from such an opportunity.
Shahab suggested that although many relevant organisations and stakeholders have participated in the EU’s training session, the organisers must ensure participation of the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) as well because it has a leading role to play in facilitating Pakistan’s exports.
On the occasion, ITC Program Officer Owais Khan – while highlighting the salient features of TRTA II program – informed that that the EU has funded this initiative with an objective to help Pakistan build necessary capacity to address trade-related issues.
The specific purpose is to support economic integration of Pakistan into the global and regional economy and to stimulate work and employment creation by increasing exports and enhancing the enabling climate for international trade, he added.
TRTA II Pakistan Chief Technical Advisor Bruno Valanzuolo, trade facilitation expert Edna Ramirez and former ambassador to WTO Dr Manzoor Ahmad delivered presentations covering various aspects of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement.
Published in The Express Tribune, November 25th, 2014.
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