This will give boost to increase in competition among the local industry and lowering of prices, which in turn would bring increase in exports and benefit to the consumer.

Mr. Shamaz Wali, Manager Exports of Services said that impact of import of shoe components from India would be positive for the local industry. It will result in enhancing the quality of shoes & reduction in prices. He said that prices being quoted by Indian companies are very competitive.

Later on 29th June, IFCOMA delegation met the top brass of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI) and gave its presentation on the need to throw open business between the two countries on the footwear sector. They met the Senior Vice President, LCCI, Mr. Sohail Lashari, Secretary Muhammad Younus & Mian Anjum Nisar, Ex President of LCCI to discuss the bilateral footwear & components trade issues. PFMA was represented by Nasir Anwer, M/s Elegant Shoes & Muhammad Younis, M/s Starlet Products.

IFCOMA President stressed on the need for opening of the land route for the benefit of the trade of both the countries. He expressed that this would give us price competitiveness and recluse the inventory cost for the Pakistan Footwear Manufacturers. Goods are currently imported through other routes resulting to high cost of around 20% with loss of time and risk.