KARACHI: Engineer Daroo Khan Achakzai, President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) urged the Government to assign exports targets to Commercial Counsellors of Pakistan posted abroad.

During the last years, the share of Pakistan’s exports to various regions has declined particularly in OIC declined to 17.4 percent compared to 29 percent in 2012, South America declined to 1.2 percent compared to 1.5 percent in 2012, Asia region declined to 38 percent compared to 52 percent in 2012 and Africa declined to 6.3 percent from 7.5 percent in 2013.

In a press statement, he stated that at present the contribution of Commercial Counsellors is insignificant in enhancement of Pakistan’s exports compared to our neighboring India and Bangladesh whose exports are continuously rising in these regions. He further stated that Commercial Counsellors should play their due role and regularly share the country market related information with the Concerned Trade Organisations.

He further added that the trade missions should open display centers at their embassy and also enhance participation in trade exhibitions in the country of their posting.  He said that government should regularly review the performance of Commercial Counsellors for enhancement of Pakistan’s export of traditional and non-traditional items. At present, there are 20 Commercial Counsellors in Asia, 8 in Middle East, 16 in Europe and four in African Region.

He urged the Government to ask the Commercial Counsellors to keep liaison with Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry. They should be asked to facilitate the businessman to explore new venues and markets.