Ficci suggests steps to Pak to increase trade ties with India

Pakistan should take steps such as granting Non-Discriminatory Market Access (NDMA) to India, liberalise visa regime besides and allowing tradable items by land route at Wagah to boost trade and investment with India, industry body Ficci today said.
It has also asked to increase the number of land custom stations, reduction of non tariff-barriers and harmonisation of customs procedure.
"These recommendations are essential in changing the dynamics of the India-Pakistan relationship and putting the engagement on a higher trajectory," it said.
Ficci in partnership with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry is organising a three-day 'India Show' in Lahore starting from Friday.

Aimed at strengthen bilateral economic cooperation with Pakistan, over 100 Indian companies from sectors, including textiles, transport and agriculture, will participate in the show.
"Increase in trade and investments will go a long way in improving the relationship between India and Pakistan besides achieving the common goals of inclusive growth," Ficci Senior Vice-President and Bharat Hotels Chairperson Jyotsna Suri said in a statement.

SAARC Chamber of Commerce & Industry President Vikramjit Sahney, who is co-leader of the Indian delegation, urged the Pakistani government to take steps to normalise trade relations with India.
"We hope Pakistan will pave way for opening Wagah 24x7 to facilitate cargo movement, allowing all trade-able items including containers through Wagah," Sahney said.

The second edition of the show' comes amidst the recent meeting of Commerce Ministers of both the countries.
"The show offers manifold benefits to all stakeholders. It has the potential to expand trade networks between India and Pakistan, bringing down costs, generating employment and expanding regional trade," Suri said.
She also said that the show would offer an opportunity for businesses to explore investment and joint-ventures.
Ficci said that grant of the Non-Discriminatory Market Access (NDMA) status to India by Pakistan will help smooth transactions and flow of goods across the border.
The bilateral trade has increased to USD 2.6 billion in 2012-13 from USD 250 million in 2003.

"Experts say the potential of trade between the two nations to be as high as 10 times the current value," it added.