KARACHI: The Salt Manufacturers Association of Pakistan (SMAP) has expressed strong support for the Chief Minister Punjab Pink Salt Value Addition Financing Scheme, which is seen as a significant initiative for the advancement of Pakistan's mineral sector. This scheme is anticipated to elevate the country's pink salt industry into a recognized global export brand.

According to SMAP, the scheme is expected to promote value-added exports, attract investment, and generate employment opportunities. It is also projected to enhance Pakistan's foreign exchange earnings by exporting finished products rather than raw pink salt. The association has called on the federal and other provincial governments to establish similar financing programs for the minerals, value-addition, and export sectors to unlock the country's export potential and contribute to economic growth.

The initiative by the Punjab government provides zero-markup financing of up to Rs50 million, enabling small and medium-sized enterprises to invest in advanced processing, value addition, and internationally compliant manufacturing facilities. This measure aims to market Pakistan's high-quality pink salt globally as branded products, increasing export revenues.

Pakistan is home to some of the world's finest pink salt reserves, but the country faces economic limitations if it continues exporting raw minerals instead of value-added products. The Punjab government's scheme is expected to stimulate industrial investment, create jobs, and position Pakistan as a leading supplier of premium pink salt products internationally.

Ismail Suttar, Founder Chairman of SMAP, emphasized the importance of policy continuity. He stated that implementing similar financing and incentive schemes across Pakistan could position the country as a top exporter of value-added pink salt products, boosting exports and contributing to long-term industrial and economic stability.