PCMA demands integrated chemical policy, timely import of raw materials

LAHORE: The Pakistan Chemical Manufacturers Association (PCMA) has demanded formulation of an integrated chemical policy after due consultations with the stakeholders and timely import of raw materials.

Addressing a press conference on Friday, the PCMA office-bearers urged the government to take steps for uninterrupted supply of electricity and gas, provide facilities for the installation of naphtha cracking plants like in Thailand and Singapore and establish a separate business park on 2,000 to 3,000 acres for chemical-related industries.

They also briefed the media about the second “Pakistan Chemical Expo 2023” scheduled to be held at the Lahore Expo Centre from February 7 to 8 with the theme creating new bonds.

The local and international chemical manufacturers and related stakeholders, including traders, technology providers, equipment suppliers and logistic partners will exhibit their products and services in the PCE 2023.

Flanked by Khalid Pervaiz, Qazi Khalid, Zafar Mehmood and Mansoor Javaid, Haroon Ali Khan said that the PCE 2023 is envisaged to boost business networking and collaboration efforts that may convert into new business avenues.

More than 15 reputed international speakers and experts will share the current trends, strategies and opportunities within the chemical industry, he said, adding that by utilising the growth opportunities in this sector and reducing the chemical imports, not only the economy of the country can be supported but also the imbalance in the foreign payments can be improved.

But for all this, an integrated chemical policy with the consultation of all stakeholders is needed, he added.

Zafar Mehmood said that the Pakistan chemical industry has a market of $20 billion and provides direct and indirect employment to 600,000 people. But despite that, the chemical industry has not yet been fully exploited in Pakistan.

Pakistan’s chemical industry is currently importing raw materials worth over $10 billion, which surrounds 30 per cent of the total import bill.

From this volume it can be estimated that if Pakistan’s chemical industry is facilitated and an integrated chemical policy is implemented at the government level, the trade deficit can significantly be reduced.

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