Shafay sees vast scope for investment in footwear sector

LAHORE:Provincial Minister for Industries and Commerce Chaudhry Shafay Hussain said that there is a vast scope for investment in the footwear manufacturing sector in Punjab. Foreign footwear companies are invited to invest in the industrial centres of Punjab. He said that there is a 10-year income tax exemption on investment in Special Economic Zones and a one-time duty-free import of machinery.

Shafay Hussain expressed these views while talking to media after inaugurating the 10th Pakistan Footwear Material and Machinery Show (PFMMS) 2025 at the Expo Centre Johar Town on Friday. The 10th PFMMS is organised by the Pakistan Footwear Association. Italian Ambassador to Pakistan Marilina Armellin, President Guangdong Shoes Manufacturing Association China Liu Solang, Chairman Pakistan Footwear Association Rashid Islam and others were also present at the inaugural ceremony.

The provincial minister said that the government is ready to provide all possible support for investment in the footwear sector. He said that they are also reviewing the establishment of a Show City in Punjab like the Garment City. It will also improve the local show industry and increase its exports. He said that foreign investment companies should take advantage of the investment opportunities in Punjab. In response to a question, the provincial minister said that the Prime Minister has reduced electricity prices, which will benefit the industry, however, there is a need for further reduction in electricity rates. Shafay said that more steps are being taken to provide facilities to investors in industrial estates. He said that Italian show designs are popular all over the world. He was happy with Italian footwear companies’ participation in the exhibition. He congratulated the Pakistan Footwear Association on the successful organisation of the exhibition and said that the participation of such a large number of foreign companies in the exhibition is an expression of confidence in the government's policies. The Italian ambassador expressed that Pakistan has a conducive environment for business and Italian companies related to the footwear sector are participating in the exhibition. The President of the Pakistan Footwear Association and the President of the China Footwear Association also addressed the ceremony. Later, the provincial minister inspected the stalls set up in the exhibition and expressed deep interest in the products displayed in the stalls.

This show is the largest ever, hosting over 250 exhibitors from more than 10 countries including China, Italy, Germany, Vietnam, and Hong Kong. The exhibition brings together the best in footwear materials, footwear machinery, and footwear components — all under one roof. An impressive China Pavilion, occupying an entire hall and featuring state-of-the-art innovations in machinery, automation, and sustainable material solutions was the key highlight of the show.

This strong participation reflects the growing industrial partnership between Pakistan and China, with a clear mutual vision for economic and manufacturing collaboration.