Lahore: Provincial Minister for Industries and Commerce Chaudhry Shafay Hussain announced that Punjab has put an end to real estate dealings in industrial estates, ensuring that only industrial units are established on acquired plots.
He made these remarks during a meeting of the Standing Committee on Industries, Commerce, and Investment at the Punjab Assembly, chaired by Junaid Afzal Sahi. The meeting reviewed the department’s performance, policy updates, and ongoing initiatives to promote industrialisation.
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Shafay Hussain highlighted that the provincial government is focused on accelerating industrialisation through improved infrastructure, streamlined investment procedures, and the development of Special Economic Zones (SEZs). He confirmed that recommendations have been sent to the federal government to expedite SEZ approvals.
Additionally, the minister announced that new boards have been formed for various institutions, and permanent vice-chancellors for technical universities will be appointed soon. He also emphasised the government’s commitment to attracting foreign investment and supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) through interest-free loan schemes.
The meeting also discussed the rationalisation of SME loan programs and reviewed measures to enhance investment in Punjab’s industrial sector. Business Facilitation Centres were acknowledged for their role in promoting business activities, while TEVTA’s expansion of foreign language courses, including German, Korean, Arabic, and Japanese, was also noted as a step toward increasing workforce opportunities abroad.
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Officials, including the Provincial Secretary for Industries and Commerce Umar Masood, MPAs, and heads of subsidiary institutions, attended the meeting. The Punjab government reaffirmed its dedication to fostering a business-friendly environment and enhancing industrial growth across the province.