It gives me enormous pleasure to learn that in keeping with its past practice, the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) is organizing the 42nd edition of their annual Export Trophy Awards ceremony this year. In order to honour the outstanding performance of our exporters during 2017-18.
The challenges facing Pakistan's business community at this point in time are not hidden from anyone. Despite facing challenges specially in shape of disruption of energy supply for industry, our exporters have exhibited great resilience and are performing well. Pakistan's business community has remained steadfast to foster Pakistan trade relations with the world.
The Federal Government is providing assistance to our exporters in the form of duty draw back on exports on a number of projects. The Government is also well aware of the challenges which are being faced by our exporters in the wake of severe competition from regional countries. I assure the private sector of the Government's utmost support in consolidating our foothold in existing markets, and at the same time in finding new avenues for the promotion of exports.
With the passage of time, the FPCCI Export Trophy Awards have evolved from a token of acknowledgement of export acumen, to an entire institution for the recognition of outstanding performance in exporting, which is highly regarded both locally and globally.
The Awards undoubtedly provide encouragement to our exporters to achieve higher standards of quality and, excellence to win acknowledgement from the country's apex body of trade and industry, and the accompanying increase in business possibilities. I extend my congratulations to all the winners and wish them continued success in future.