Muhammad Saleem

The Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FCCI) is going to constitute a special committee to assist both local and foreign investors in exploring new business opportunities.

Talking to WealthPK, Shahid Mumtaz, Vice President of FCCI, said scores of people travel from Faisalabad seeking business ventures at home and abroad. However, the facilities for the air passengers require immediate attention from the policymakers. He said the FCCI will constitute a standing committee to address the issues faced by the air travelers to and from Faisalabad, which is an industrial and export city. By ensuring adequate facilities for the passengers, we can pave the way for both local and foreign investment to the district.

 He said Faisalabad is known as the textile capital of Pakistan and this sector needs investment and modernization. To materialize the plan, he said a meeting was arranged a couple of days ago with the Travel Agents Association of Pakistan during which it was unanimously decided to collaborate with the government and relevant departments to iron out the wrinkles and improve facilities for the travelers.

Mumtaz highlighted that a large number of people from Faisalabad travel abroad, requiring efforts from the policymakers to uplift the city’s airport infrastructure. Currently, he said two daily flights operate between Faisalabad and Dubai. However, it is the need of the hour to introduce a business class section to cater to the requirements of these travelers.

He said the Travel Agents Association has been tasked with providing data on the basic facilities available for passengers at Faisalabad and other airports. Following the information, he said the FCCI will discuss the issues at the appropriate level for improvements. Obeid, who frequently traveled to China for trade, told WealthPK that he has to go to Lahore airport, as no direct flights are available from Faisalabad. He claimed that scores of people are keen to establish trade relations with Chinese entrepreneurs but lack the necessary information and convenient travel options.  He suggested that the government should set up special counters at the Faisalabad Airport to inform frequent travelers.

He believes that the information to be provided at these counters will help travelers plan their tips efficiently, enabling them to bring foreign exchange to Pakistan through increased exports. “Faisalabad, the third largest city and second-highest revenue generator in Pakistan, lacks various essential facilities. The rulers must address these issues and upgrade the local airport to facilitate both local and international travelers,” he said.

Nadeem Iqbal, former president of the Travel Agents Association, said it is commendable that the FCCI office-bearers are ready to join hands with their association to resolve the issues of the travel industry and Faisalabad Airport. He said FCCI is a strong platform with direct access to the policymakers. Suggestions to be forwarded through the FCCI will not fall on deaf ears, he hoped.

He said strong cooperation between the FCCI and Travel Agents Association will boost the local and national travel industry. He expressed concerns that lack of facilities at Faisalabad airport is driving passengers to Lahore, allowing their competitors to capitalize on the business opportunities. We are losing international clientele due to the indifferent attitude of the rulers, he said. Iqbal advocated expansion of Faisalabad Airport’s runway and establishment of an executive lounge.

Credit: INP-WealthPk