Federal Minister for Industries and Production Rana Tanveer Hussain on Saturday firmly denied reports of closing down Utility Stores nationwide.
Speaking at the inauguration of the 9th Colour & Chem Expo at Lahore International Expo Centre, Hussain clarified that there are no plans to shut down the Utility Stores.
Instead, he explained that the Utility Stores Corporation (USC) is being restructured to better target aid to those in need of affordable groceries and essentials.
The minister added that the government already provides subsidies to those in need through Baitul Maal and the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP). However, he acknowledged that subsidy programs have faced issues with misuse in the country.
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In response to questions about the 105% and 18% taxes on the tractor industry, Tanveer Hussain stated that he had discussed the issue with the finance minister and FBR.
After multiple meetings with the tractor association, he expressed hope for a positive resolution soon, emphasizing that farmers and agriculture are a priority.
The minister acknowledged that exports from India, Bangladesh, and other developing countries significantly exceed those of Pakistan. He noted that the Prime Minister has set a target to double Pakistan’s exports within three years.
