Karachi: Ismail Suttar, the Founding Chairman of the Salt Manufacturers Association of Pakistan (SMAP), has voiced concerns over the Punjab government's potential ban on the export of raw pink Himalayan salt, citing a lack of stakeholder consultation and the potential negative impact on the industry.

According to Salt Manufacturers Association of Pakistan, Suttar criticized the announcement made by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, stating it was made without involving key industry stakeholders. He highlighted that the salt industry expected to engage in discussions with the government prior to any decision-making, emphasizing the need for a collaborative approach to understand the implications of such a ban.

Suttar pointed out the substantial role of the private sector in Pakistan's mining activities, which accounts for 70 percent, contrasting with the government's lesser role yet significant influence in decision-making. He advocated for a structured and methodical process in policy-making, similar to practices observed in Indonesia under Trade Minister Muhammad Lutfi during the raw nickel export ban.

Further, Suttar argued for the importance of value addition processes which require time, investment, and research to meet international standards and prepare industries for such transitions. He suggested that before imposing export bans on raw minerals, other valuable minerals like lithium and rare earth elements should be considered for value-added processing to potentially enhance national export revenues.

While SMAP is open to the concept of banning raw salt exports if beneficial for the country, Suttar emphasized the necessity for government to consult with relevant stakeholders to avoid jeopardizing the industry and the country's export capabilities.