HYDERABAD: Acting President of Hyderabad Chamber of Small Traders and Small Industry, Ahmed Idrees Chohan, stated that the chamber has always been at the forefront of promoting small and medium-sized enterprises.
He emphasized the significance of training sessions for the establishment and growth of new businesses in Hyderabad, as these not only provide essential information but also offer exporters opportunities to enhance their skills to meet international standards. He expressed these views while addressing the “National Exporters Training Program 2024” organized by the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) Hyderabad.
Chohan highlighted the pivotal role of digital marketing in exporting Pakistani products abroad. He pointed out that in today’s era, international platforms evaluate exporters’ company profiles on platforms like Facebook and Instagram, and their market value is determined by their digital presentation. Therefore, he urged all exporters in Hyderabad to ensure their company profiles are complete and updated on digital platforms.
He commended the efforts of TDAP Hyderabad’s in-charge, Salahuddin Abbasi, stating that such training programs serve as milestones in educating new entrepreneurs and exporters about their responsibilities and opportunities. Through these initiatives, the business environment in Pakistan can be further strengthened, paving the way for economic growth.
Afshan Aroos, Deputy Manager and Coordinator of TDAP Karachi, delivered presentation on formal exports and export fund generation. She stressed the importance of selecting a single market, understanding product HS codes, and using proper banking channels to advance exports. She added that TDAP annually organizes multiple exhibitions in engineering, healthcare, automobiles, and textiles, providing exporters’ opportunities to connect with buyers from Asia, Europe, and African nations. Additionally, TDAP’s website contains details of over 5,000 international buyers from various countries. She pointed out that Pakistan has approximately 17,000 exporters, of which only 1,799 are major exporters, while the majority is small exporters. Sindh’s share of exporters is relatively low, and TDAP is actively collaborating with all stakeholders to address this.
She emphasized the demand for halal product certificate holders in markets like Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, and other Muslim countries. She urged new exporters to explore this sector. She also mentioned funding opportunities for exports, highlighting that the State Bank of Pakistan and National Bank have launched several easy loan schemes, including loans of up to 5 million PKR on flexible terms for new businesswomen.
Salahuddin Abbasi, In-charge of Sub-Regional Office TDAP, Hyderabad’s noted that the agricultural production in the Hyderabad region is worth trillions of rupees. However, according to traders, Hyderabad does not receive the same priority from the government as Karachi and Lahore when it comes to exports. He explained that the session aimed to address the concerns of traders in the Hyderabad region. He acknowledged the collaboration of the Hyderabad Chamber of Small Traders and Small Industry, along with other stakeholders, in making the program successful. The program aimed to resolve issues related to buyers and banking channels in exports and facilitate funding for exporters.
On this occasion, organizations such as Pakistan Single Window and SMEDA, which provide facilities for various businesses in Pakistan, also delivered presentations.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2024