Trade expos sign of increase in economic activities

LAHORE: Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) President Shiekh Muhammad Arshad while inaugurating 3rd LCCI Expo 2016 has said continuous trade exhibitions at Lahore Expo Centre were testimony to increased economic activities in the country.

He said this exhibition was mainly organised to generate business activities in Lahore. He said the booking of almost 150 plus stalls in the current economic conditions was a great success. “Our local companies are exhibiting not only general consumer items but exportable items like handicrafts, hosiery, and trendy readymade garments etc, which have enormous potential. The desirable thing is to market them in an effective way,” he added.

Arshad hoped the 3rd Expo Lahore would achieve the desired objectives of trade promotion and economic growth not only for Lahore but also for Punjab.

Punjab Industries Minister Ch Muhammad Shafiq who was the chief guest on the occasion said the business community was the backbone of the economy, and its role was crucial for economic development. He said the government was committed to resolve the energy crisis.

“A number of power projects are in the pipeline and after their completion load shedding will end,” he said, adding the new industrial estates were being established in various parts of the province as various measures were being taken for industrial expansion and reduction in unemployment.

LCCI Senior Vice President Almas Hyder said all over the world, fairs and exhibitions were considered the most effective tool of marketing and reaching out to potential customers. He said that Germany and France were making the best use of this tool.

While citing the examples of Germany and China, LCCI Vice President Nasir Saeed said their economies were thriving today only because of exhibitions and exchange of delegations. “Now the private sector in Pakistan was also focusing on holding exhibitions and it was a good sign and a good omen for the economic well being of the country,” he added.

The sponsors for 3rd Expo Lahore include Nikon Pakistan, Sufi Group, Interwood, Canon Foam, Fast Cables, United Industries, and Chief Machinery Store.