One SRO Can Shut Down Industries Built Over Generations: Farhan ur Rehman

Karachi: Farhan ur Rehman, former Chairman of the Korangi Association of Trade and Industry (KATI) and Patron-in-Chief of Pakistan Business Group, has warned that while it takes decades and generations to establish industries, a single ill-conceived SRO can put them at risk of closure.
He emphasized that while the government may provide subsidies, such support should come from state resources rather than by imposing additional costs on industries. Industries are already struggling with high inflation, rising production costs, and economic uncertainty, and any further financial burden could force more closures.
Farhan ur Rehman highlighted that past flawed economic and industrial policies have left the national economy under severe stress. Rising energy prices, an unbalanced taxation system, inflation, and inconsistent budgetary decisions have further strained industrial growth.
He warned that if critical economic decisions continue to be made without consulting stakeholders, industry leaders, and the business community, it could severely impact investment, production, and employment opportunities.
He urged the government to adopt industry-friendly policies, provide energy and other subsidies from the state budget, and avoid placing unnecessary burdens on businesses to ensure sustainable industrial growth and long-term economic stability.