ISLAMABAD: Representatives of Pakistan’s electric fan industry have urged the government to introduce targeted policy measures to promote value-added manufacturing, improve exports, and accelerate the adoption of energy-efficient technologies.
The demands were presented during a virtual meeting with Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, where industry leaders highlighted key structural challenges and growth opportunities.
The delegation, led by the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry and the Pakistan Electric Fan Manufacturers Association, emphasised the need to curb the export of raw materials such as copper and aluminium. They argued that unchecked exports of these inputs limit domestic value addition and weaken the country’s manufacturing base.
According to officials, Pakistan’s fan industry is a fully indigenous sector comprising around 300 manufacturers, primarily based in Gujrat and Gujranwala. The sector supports approximately 40,000 direct and over 150,000 indirect jobs, while maintaining a notable export presence in markets across the Middle East and Africa.
A key focus of the discussion was the transition toward energy-efficient DC fans. Industry representatives expressed readiness to support large-scale replacement of conventional fans, which could significantly reduce electricity consumption nationwide.
The finance minister acknowledged the potential of the sector and reiterated the government’s commitment to engaging with industries to address operational challenges. He noted that while policy frameworks for energy efficiency exist, their success depends on better awareness, stronger coordination with financial institutions, and effective implementation.
Access to finance for expanding production capacity also emerged as a major concern. Aurangzeb assured participants that financing mechanisms would be reviewed to better align with industry needs, particularly in light of upcoming energy-efficiency initiatives.
Discussions also covered SME liquidity issues, including delays in tax refunds, export facilitation, and tariff structures on inputs. The minister highlighted ongoing reforms aimed at rationalising costs and improving the overall business environment.
He stressed that sustainable export growth hinges on competitiveness, scale, and consistent policies, adding that taxation alone cannot drive industrial expansion without parallel support in financing, innovation, and market access.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the government’s commitment to supporting export-oriented and value-added sectors through continued dialogue and practical policy interventions.
The session was attended by Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani, senior officials from the Finance Division, and representatives of key institutions including the Federal Board of Revenue.
Industry participants included PEFMA Chairman Nabeel Ahmed Ilyas, Export Committee Chairman M. Azhar Aslam, Pak Fans Director Yesir Ihsan, Royal Fans Director Imad Rafiq, and Super Asia Group CEO M. Faisal Afzal, among others.
The discussion also revisited the government’s planned 10-year subsidised fan replacement programme, backed by a Rs2 billion fund under the “On-Bill Islamic Financing” model, aimed at replacing nearly 88 million inefficient fans across the country, including those served by K-Electric.
Story by Khaleeq Kiani
