Govt backs cement exports, vows relief for ghee sector

In separate meeting with PVMA, Khan assured ghee producers of government’s understanding and support

By Israr Khan
May 24, 2025
Special Assistant to the Prime Minister for Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan chairing a meeting. —APP/File
Special Assistant to the Prime Minister for Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan chairing a meeting. —APP/File

ISLAMABAD: In a major push to boost Pakistan’s exports and ease industry concerns, the government on Friday pledged full support to the cement and ghee sectors, aiming to enhance global competitiveness and resolve pressing challenges.

Chairing a key meeting of the Cement and Clinker Export Task Force, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister for Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan underscored the administration’s commitment to reviving cement exports. “The government will provide complete backing to the cement industry to facilitate and increase exports,” he said.

Stakeholders discussed key bottlenecks — axle load tax, port congestion, storage limitations and rail connectivity — agreeing on a collaborative approach to eliminate export hurdles. Khan stressed the importance of synergy across institutions, saying, “Cooperation and harmony among all stakeholders are essential for progress.”

He called for round-the-clock effort to boost competitiveness, adding, “We must work day and night to enhance the global competitiveness of our cement.” He also directed the formation of sub-committees within the task force and assigned them new responsibilities to expedite export strategies.

Meanwhile, in a separate meeting with the Pakistan Vanaspati Manufacturers Association (PVMA), Khan assured ghee producers of the government’s understanding and support. “We fully recognise the issues being faced by the ghee sector and are committed to not putting the industry under any additional pressure,” he said.

Responding to industry concerns over outstanding payments, he pledged, “The government of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will ensure the timely disbursement of all pending payments.” While acknowledging delays in cash releases, Khan said, “Efforts will be made to expedite the process.”

He also highlighted the administration’s support for low-income families, noting, “Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif successfully delivered the Ramadan package directly to deserving households.”