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Sugar industry's problems discussed with ISO
chief
ISLAMABAD (April 01 2004): Punjab Zone Chairman of
Pakistan Sugar Mills Association Javed Kayani made
a courtesy call on Chief Minister Punjab Pervaiz
Elahi along with the Executive Director of
International Sugar Organisation, Dr Peter Baron.
Ijaz Ahmad, member central executive of the
association, was also present on this occasion.
Dr Baron discussed salient features of the
international sugar organisation and apprised
Pervaiz Elahi about its working how it serves the
interests of 61 member countries.
Pakistan being the ninth largest sugar producing
country still has a missing link with ISO.
Dr Baron was of the view that Pakistan should send
its official delegation, having PSMA
representatives, to the forthcoming conference of
ISO in Dominican Republic.
He said that India has been regularly
participating in all meetings of the ISO, which
provides a platform to understand the issues
relating to sugar industry globally and to find a
possible solution.
During the meeting, Javed briefed to the Chief
Minister and told him that PSMA has requested Dr
Peter Baron to help on two issues. One is
preferential quota for sale of sugar in Europe
which is a supportive measure, and India is
availing a quota of 50,000 tons molasses imported
from ACP/Mexico and Egypt is allowed duty free
access in the EU. whereas, Pakistani molasses is
subject to a duty of $9 per ton.
It is greatly affecting Pakistan's exports to the
EU. Dr Peter Baron also discussed issues arising
from the WTO and its repercussions but was hopeful
that the governments would act prudently to adopt
safeguard measures to protect local industry.
Javed said that under the WTO arrangement Pakistan
can levy up to 150 percent duty on imported sugar
which is presently 25 percent.
He requested Dr Baron to assist the PSMA in terms
of the Safta agreement with the help of ISO so
that PSMA could plead the case for inclusion on
the list of sensitive items.
Courtesy Business Recorder |
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Pakissan.com; Advisory Point
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