Faiza Tehseen

Holding trade exhibitions both at national and international levels can significantly leverage Pakistan’s industrial sector.

“Trade shows go a long way in stimulating business, trade and services sectors and creating job opportunities,” said Zulfiqar Ahmed, head of media and communication wing of Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI). Talking to WealthPK, he said RCCI was planning to conduct trade exhibitions this year with a focus on ensuring maximum participation of foreign investors. He said the chamber had been organising trade shows and expos to help promote economic activities and facilitate business networking in the Rawalpindi region. “These events provide platforms for businesses to showcase their products and services, connect with potential clients and partners and explore new market opportunities.” He said RCCI’s Rawal Expo showcased handicrafts, electronics, textiles, garments, leather and consumer goods; IT Expo focused on the information technology and telecommunications sectors, related products, services and solutions from local and international companies; Health and Wellness Expo helped promote health and wellness products and services, including pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, fitness products, and healthcare services; and Gems’ Expo encouraged local traders and industrialists to take up the non-conventional sectors like the gemstone business. 

Zulfiqar said the trade shows and expos had contributed to economic development, trade promotion and business growth in the Rawalpindi region. “They provide valuable opportunities for businesses to showcase their capabilities, expand their market reach, and foster collaboration with local and international partners.” He emphasised that chambers across the country should regularly organise trade and business shows. Stressing the importance of trade shows for business promotion, Usman Ashraf, Chief Executive Officer of Islamabad-based MIA Corporation (Pvt) Limited, told WealthPK that trade shows played a key role in promoting business activities in a country. “Trade shows provide an environment for healthy competition in trade, business and services sectors. They also help create a competitive market, offering reasonable prices, quality products and services.”

He said foreign investors were bound by the governments to allocate more employment opportunities for the natives once they launched their ventures. “Governments take these steps to secure the local trade and business communities and to enhance the work opportunities for people.” He emphasised that the government should frame proper policies to encourage international brands, traders, businesses and service providers to join the Pakistani market. He said that he was running the business of air conditioning units for both domestic and commercial customers. He said exhibitions showcasing HVAC (heating, ventilation and air-conditioning) were held every year in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad for foreign investors. “Such exhibitions and trade shows are key market stimulators. Chambers of commerce and industry across the country can play a vital role by presenting Pakistan as a potential market for foreign investors.”

INP: Credit: INP-WealthPk