At the 79th Independence Day Flag Hoisting Ceremony organized by the Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI), Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah declared Pakistan’s export target of $100 billion “absolutely achievable.” He emphasized that Sindh’s vast indigenous energy resources — particularly Thar coal, solar, wind, and gas — could serve as the backbone of efforts to reduce production costs and enhance industrial competitiveness. By harnessing these resources, he argued, Pakistan could strengthen its position in global markets and make its products more competitive internationally.
The Chief Minister endorsed the proposal by Chairman Businessmen Group (BMG) Zubair Motiwala to raise exports from $30 billion to $100 billion, noting that overseas Pakistanis already contribute around $40 billion in remittances. He stressed that the next battle Pakistan must win is on the economic front, calling for unity between government and business leaders to achieve sustainable growth. Shah urged the business community to amplify its collective voice before the federal government for policies that lower the cost of doing business and energy.
Highlighting Sindh’s potential as Pakistan’s energy basket, Shah insisted on fully utilizing Thar coal and indigenous gas to reduce reliance on expensive imported fuel. He assured KCCI of continued cooperation, citing past support during crises such as the Gul Plaza tragedy and incidents at Timber Market and Bolton Market. He also pledged to examine the concerns of Nasla Tower affectees and directed the Transport Department to resolve the ongoing transporters’ strike swiftly.
Earlier, Zubair Motiwala urged that Independence Day should go beyond ceremonial flag-hoisting, serving instead as a moment of introspection and renewed commitment to economic progress. He argued that Pakistan’s competitiveness lagged behind that of countries like India, Bangladesh, and Cambodia, and called for a cost comparison study to identify structural weaknesses. He also emphasized modernizing agriculture to strengthen the export base and urged citizens to contribute actively to national development.
KCCI President Rehan Hanif welcomed the Chief Minister and appreciated his regular engagement with the Chamber. He highlighted Pakistan’s successes in defence and diplomacy but stressed the urgent need for economic self-reliance. Hanif requested further assistance for Gul Plaza traders still awaiting reconstruction and urged stronger enforcement against reckless driving to protect citizens’ lives.
