HCSTSI Voices Concern Over Export Disruptions

The President of the Hyderabad Chamber of Small Traders & Small Industry (HCSTSI), Muhammad Saleem Memon, has voiced significant apprehension regarding the extensive interruptions to Pakistan’s agricultural exports. These disruptions stem from ongoing demonstrations and road closures affecting national highways. In letters directed to the Chief Minister of Sindh, Syed Murad Ali Shah, and the Sindh Home Minister, Sharjeel Memon, he has called for immediate action and effective solutions to resolve this escalating situation.

He explained that a multitude of export containers, laden with goods such as potatoes, fruits, and other agricultural products, have been marooned for several days at Sindh’s entry points. These shipments were en route to markets in the Middle East and Far East, fulfilling already confirmed export agreements.

“If these containers fail to reach the ports promptly, the export orders risk cancellation, potentially causing exporters to incur losses amounting to millions of dollars,” he cautioned.

HCSTSI President Saleem Memon emphasized the necessity of maintaining specific temperature conditions for perishable commodities such as potatoes and fruits. Without consistent power access or generators, the likelihood of spoilage is exceptionally high.

“This situation not only represents a loss for exporters but also poses a serious financial setback to our farmers, whose hard work in cultivating these crops is now jeopardized,” he added.

He further noted the business community’s prior setbacks due to a recent strike by goods transporters, which now compounds the economic challenges presented by the current sit-ins.

“Numerous trucks and containers, some repurposed by law enforcement as barricades, are disrupting both internal supply routes and external trade operations,” the HCSTSI president stated.

He has urged the Sindh government to promptly establish a Green Channel to facilitate the movement of export goods, ensuring their rapid and unimpeded transit to seaports. Additionally, he proposed the development of an Emergency Corridor Policy for critical agricultural exports, providing security escorts for time-sensitive shipments to guarantee their timely arrival at ports.

Saleem appealed to all relevant parties to prioritize the nation’s economic well-being and work towards resolving the issue through collaborative discussions and mutual understanding.