Pakistan can gain from US tariff hikes, says SITE Association

KARACHI: The SITE Association of Industry (SAI) has urged the government to capitalise on the opportunity created by reports of a potential tax increase by the US on imports from China, Mexico, Canada, and other countries.

SAI President Ahmed Azeem Alvi emphasised that the government should support Pakistani exporters by reducing taxes and lowering electricity and gas tariffs to bring down industrial production costs. These incentives, he argued, would enable exporters to expand their presence in global markets, particularly the US, and remain competitive on price.

“We must not let this opportunity slip under any circumstances. To boost exports, an effective strategy should be formulated in consultation with stakeholders, benefiting not only large-scale manufacturers but also small and medium enterprises (SMEs),” Alvi said on Saturday.

He added that this is an excellent opportunity to take advantage of recent US policies. By exporting high-quality Pakistani products to the US, the country can secure a significant market share. However, exporters require government support and assistance from Pakistan’s commercial attache in the US to secure export orders and facilitate B2B meetings with American traders. Such cooperation, he noted, would help lower production costs and enhance Pakistan’s global competitiveness.

“The government should provide relief to export industries for at least one year, which could result in a minimum 30 per cent increase in exports. This would not only generate substantial foreign exchange for the country but also promote industrial growth and create employment opportunities for the youth,” Alvi added.