Karachi: The Union of Small and Medium Enterprises (UNISAME) whilst appreciating the formation by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of a high-powered committee to revive industrial growth, has pointed out a serious omission of not including the SME sector representative in the committee.
According to Union of Small and Medium Enterprises, President UNISAME Zulfikar Thaver said non-inclusion of the SME sector representative in the committee is a significant mistake. He mentioned that while the big industry is hesitant currently due to various factors, the medium enterprises are the most dynamic sector. He highlighted that most of the value addition units in the country belong to the medium sector.
Thaver suggested that the PM might be unaware of the sector’s vast potential and its deep roots in Pakistan. He noted that while big industrialists have left the country along with their capital, the medium enterprises have remained steadfast in their commitment to Pakistan.
He cited Dubai as an example, noting it is filled with big Pakistani businessmen who have their assets there, but not a single medium entrepreneur is found among them. The medium enterprises are committed to exporting their goods and seeking new ideas internationally, but their focus remains on establishing new ventures in Pakistan.
UNISAME has consistently urged the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) to promote, support, and facilitate the medium and higher medium enterprises, which are eager to set up factories in Pakistan. Thaver criticized the government for overlooking this sector instead of motivating it.
The PM’s committee includes advocates and accountants but lacks representation from the medium or higher medium sector. Thaver urged the PM to immediately include a representative of UNISAME to make the committee complete and capable of guiding on industry types, their scope, opportunities, and exploration.
The Union Council members have suggested establishing import substitution industries through private-public partnerships to reduce import dependency. They also urged the PM to set up a subcommittee under UNISAME and SMEDA to develop light engineering industries for goods currently imported but feasible to produce in Pakistan.
UNISAME had previously proposed the manufacturing of solar panels and drones for agriculture and commercial purposes, leveraging technology from China and collaboration with PCSIR and other leading engineering institutions in Pakistan. Thaver appreciated the PM’s initiative to form this committee for revival but emphasized the need for a knowledgeable team.