LAHORE:
The Punjab authorities is planning to introduce a long-term industrial land lease coverage offering performance-based leases of 30-year phrases or longer, aimed toward boosting industrial exercise throughout the province, a senior official mentioned on Thursday.
Secretary Industries, Funding and Commerce Punjab, Muhammad Umar Masood, mentioned the proposed framework would apply not solely to SEZs but additionally to different industrial estates, with a proper announcement anticipated earlier than Ramazan.
Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Trade (LCCI) President Faheemur Rehman Saigol mentioned the economic sector was beneath extreme strain, noting that trade’s share in GDP had fallen to 18% whereas large-scale manufacturing recorded destructive development of 1.5% in fiscal 12 months 2024-25. He mentioned rising prices, together with excessive coverage charges, taxation and power costs, have been driving capital flight.
Saigol urged federal motion to abolish the Sindh Infrastructure Improvement Cess and highlighted a 40% decline in meals exports, calling for incentives for agro-based industries. He additionally sought help for environmental compliance, SME financing, decrease land costs and a long-term lease coverage. Masood mentioned stronger coordination with chambers and data-based dialogue have been wanted, including that governance, infrastructure improvement and public-private partnerships have been priorities. He mentioned a one-window system can be launched for environmental compliance and urged higher use.
