KARACHI: President of the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI) Muhammad Ikram Rajput has welcomed the decision to defer a nationwide strike by goods transporters for 40 days after successful negotiations with government representatives. The move is seen as a significant development for the national economy, industry, trade, and the continuity of the supply chain.
According to Korangi Association of Trade and Industry, Rajput expressed appreciation for the Prime Minister of Pakistan, crediting the prime minister with an effective role in addressing longstanding issues in the transport sector and aiding in resolving the crisis. He extended thanks to federal and provincial government officials, including the Governor of Sindh, the Mayor of Karachi, and Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan, for their efforts in resolving the issues through consultation and negotiations.
The nine-day strike had significantly disrupted industrial and commercial activities, affecting exports, imports, and supply chains across the country. Rajput noted that goods transportation is a fundamental component of economic activity in Pakistan and emphasized the importance of resolving disruptions through negotiations.
Rajput also highlighted concerns regarding the current mechanism for determining petroleum product prices, which he described as unpredictable and costly for business operations. He urged the government to adopt a transparent and predictable pricing system, proposing that prices be determined monthly, or at least every 15 days, to facilitate better cost estimation for industrialists, traders, and transporters.
Emphasizing the need for timely implementation of agreements reached during negotiations, Rajput called for regular meetings between the government and transporters and continuous consultation among all stakeholders. He stressed that any issues should be resolved through dialogue to protect the broader interests of Pakistan's economy, cautioning that the country cannot afford prolonged economic disruptions amid current regional and global circumstances.