Key Takeaways
- Sindh government implements tax-free package for Dhabeji Special Economic Zone.
- One-window operation launched by Sindh Enterprises Development Fund.
- Agreement signed with World Bank for recycling treatment plants project.
Special Assistant to the Chief Minister of Sindh for Investment and Public-Private Partnership, Syed Qasim Naveed Qamar, has announced several initiatives aimed at promoting industrialization in the province. These measures include a tax-free package for industries established in Dhabeji Special Economic Zone.
Qamar also highlighted that no duty is being collected on the import of industrial machinery into the Dhabeji Economic Zone, and a one-window operation by the Sindh Enterprises Development Fund will facilitate investors accessing all government facilities through a single platform.
To support local businesses, Qasim Naveed Qamar mentioned that a special committee has been formed under federal supervision to protect the business community. Additionally, plans are in place for a modern hatchery project covering six acres in Hawkes Bay, which is set to be activated next September.
The Sindh government aims to provide employment opportunities for 800 youth from across Sindh through training programs, with their salaries starting at Rs75,000. Furthermore, grants of up to Rs35 million will be given to investors establishing industrial units in Thatta, Badin, and Sujawal.
In a significant development, an agreement has been signed for the recycling treatment plants project worth 489 million euros with World Bank support, benefiting both the industrial and environmental sectors. The government is also planning to provide relatively cheap electricity at about 10 cents per unit in Dhabeji Economic Zone from Thar Coal and Jhampir Wind Power projects.
Efforts are underway to establish a value-added ecosystem through public-private partnership with two foreign companies, while Chinese firms have been invited to invest in mango, date, and tomato cultivation. These initiatives underscore the government's commitment to fostering industrial growth and employment opportunities.
Sheikh Tahseen, President of Federal B Area Trade and Industry, emphasized the need for reducing electricity tariffs to support the survival of the industrial sector and increasing domestic exports. He stressed that new industrial zones are essential for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) development and called for special attention to incentivize this sector.
At the ceremony, industrialists Idrees Gigi, Babar Khan, and others welcomed these steps by the Sindh government, expressing hope for rapid project implementation. The focus on public-private partnerships is expected to enhance timely completion of development projects and promote investment.
The Sindh government is implementing several major projects to promote industrialization, investment and employment in the province.
Syed Qasim Naveed Qamar, Special Assistant to the Chief Minister of Sindh for Investment and Public-Private Partnership
A reduction in electricity tariffs has become inevitable for the survival of the industrial sector and an increase in domestic exports.
Sheikh Tahseen, President of Federal B Area Trade and Industry
