The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry” (FPCCI) has published three of its note-worthy publications “The COVID-19 and Pakistan: Implications & Way forward”, “FPCCI Activity Report”of 2020” and a research report on “Potentials of Halal Food Industry in Pakistan: Opportunities, Constraints, and Way Forward”.
Shaikh Sultan Rehman, Vice President the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) steered the preparation of these publications with determination and commitment. Report on “The COVID-19 and Pakistan: Implications & Way forward” is a part of FPCCI’s initiative to provide an expert guideline for policymakers on economic issues in the perspective of COVID-19 and the lockdown during the pandemic. The objective of this comprehensive report is to investigate the impact of COVID -19 on economic growth, poverty, unemployment, foreign trade, tax revenue, food security, domestic commerce, the service sector, etc. It analyzed the impact of COVID-19 on Pakistan’s economy and the measures taken by Pakistan and other countries. Hopefully, the analytical data and comparisons included in the report will contribute towards mitigation of COVID-19 impact, trending the SOPs and other strategies.
Shaikh Sultan Rehman, Vice President FPCCI also presented his performance “Activity Report” of 2020 which takes stock of FPCCI’s major activities during 2020. In spite of COVID-19 environment it show cases significant activities. FPCCI displayed, the competitive landscape, benchmarked the current position, development strategy and concepts, and relevant information to help break through all of the noise, and truly described its struggle for trade and industry.
Proceedings of regular Seminars, interactive sessions, and other events included in the Activity Report, with the early commencement of COVID-19 pandemic FPCCI carried on the activities through webinars and virtual meetings and in-house activities with the adoption of SOPs as well. Taking all stakeholders FPPCI held a lot of meetings with Consul Generals from various consulates, parliamentarians, advisors, ministers, Government officials, business and trade chambers, women chambers, academia, media, Governmental and private organizations. MoU signing ceremonies with consulates, business chambers, and groups abroad, special meetings with the heads of FBR, Customs, NAB, and other departments, meetings with delegations from various departments and organizations.
An incomparable research paper is produced in the reflection of an enthusiastic study on “The Potential of Halal Food Industry in Pakistan; Opportunities, Constraints, and Way Forward” by the 5 students of Institute of Business Administration Karachi (IBA) under the
supervision Dr. Shahid Mir of IBA patronized by FPCCI and facilitated by Shaikh Sultan Rehman Vice President FPCCI, Mr. Mehar Alam Khan Additional Secretary General FPCCI and Ms. Amber Fatima Director R&D, FPCCI.
Shaikh Sultan Rehman stated that despite, Pakistan’s resourcefulness, its strong relationship with the Middle Eastern countries, the presence of millions of Pakistanis overseas, and the preference for Pakistani food across the Middle Eastern region, the share of Pakistan’s Meat, Spices & Confectionary items in the Halal category is not keeping pace. This extensive research has been conducted by incorporating available literature, interviews, field visits, and sessions with the relevant experts, etc. data collected by the students can support the food industry for potential work planning to achieve enhanced productivity. The collaboration of Academia and trade industry could prove vital for sustainable output. He intended the next study to be commenced on agriculture particularly on the yield of Cotton.
All publications have been uploaded to the website of The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry” (FPCCI) and available for comments and suggestions from all concerned, which will be welcomed and appreciated.