Salt industry opposes export ban

KARACHI: Ismail Suttar, the founding chairperson of the Salt Manufacturers Association of Pakistan (SMAP), has expressed deep concern over the recent announcement by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif regarding a potential ban on the export of raw pink Himalayan salt.

Suttar described the situation as unfortunate, criticizing the government for what he views as a pattern of detrimental decisions.In a statement, Suttar expressed surprise at the remark from the chief minister’s office, noting that it was made without consulting the salt industry stakeholders. The association had expected a meeting with the Punjab government, as primary stakeholders, before any final decision was announced to discuss the potential consequences of such a measure.

Suttar remarked, “We are already facing significant debt and cannot afford decisions that seem politically motivated. In Pakistan, 70 per cent of mining activities are carried out by the private sector, while only 30 per cent are managed by government organizations like the Pakistan Minerals Development Corporation (PMDC), which itself relies on private contractors for mining. Despite this, a small minority in the government makes decisions that impact everyone, regardless of whether they benefit the broader industry.”

He suggested that decisions affecting industries should be made through a structured, methodical process instead of being based on political considerations. He cited the example of Muhammad Lutfi, the trade minister of Indonesia, who held extensive consultations with stakeholders before the Indonesian government decided to ban the export of raw nickel. “Value addition is not an overnight process. It requires time, investment and significant research to develop a product that meets international market standards while preparing industries for this transition.