KARACHI: Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan visited the National Tariff Commission (NTC) to review its performance and devise ways and means to enhance its role in tariff policy formulation and the protection of domestic industry, according to a press release by the Ministry of Commerce on Monday.
He was welcomed by Chairperson of the National Tariff Commission Naeem Anwar, Secretary of the National Tariff Commission Ali Muhammad Shah and commission members who briefed him on the commission’s operations and achievements.
Jam Kamal sought recommendations from the NTC on improving its operations, focusing on human resources, legal matters, and budgetary issues.The meeting emphasized the importance of equipping the National Tariff Commission with the necessary resources and autonomy to enhance its role in supporting Pakistan’s economic growth and trade policies.
The chairperson highlighted that the National Tariff Commission has been pivotal in advising the government on tariff policy and tariff-related trade measures to bolster domestic industry competitiveness and promote exports.
Per the press release, the minister was told that the commission has addressed over 500 tariff-related cases and undertaken 153 antidumping investigations since its inception.The commission also informed the minister about certain amendments that would further strengthen the institution.Key issues discussed in the meeting included the need for financial autonomy; the upgrade of IT infrastructure; database modernization; and human resource development through targeted training.