Participation and visiting big leather fairs is essential to attract export orders. But Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) has choked off its financial support to two fairs a year, which will make it more difficult for Pakistani companies to compete and improve exports.
Leather exporters have looked to collaborate with TDAP to maintain participation of Pakistani tanneries in international fairs to develop global contacts and partnerships.
PTA Chairman Sh. Saqib Masood said, according to The Nation, this year more than 17 companies are participating in the Lineapelle Fair in Bologna, Italy, at the moment to display the best quality of finished leather and garner orders to boost exports.
He added that with the TDAP's assistance, Pakistani tanners could achieve enough export orders of leather and leather products in the international market, but the Pakistani leather sector is facing a steep decline in production due to government inconsistencies in its policies, and should feature on Trade Development Authority of Pakistan's export promotion priorities.
Sh. Saqib further pointed out that Pakistan needs as much support as possible to fulfil the vast potential for exports. He, therefore, asked TDAP to enhance its allocations of funds to ensure increased participation in global leather industry fairs.
