industrial policy, its spatial aspects and cluster development in ...

of the NEEDS. Below we have summarised a whole list of issues that are faced by the
light engineering sector.
3.3.12.1.1 Non‐Availability of Export Houses
As the sector majorly comprise of small to micro scale businesses there is hardly any
possibility to keep a systematic track of exports and the quality of the goods being sent
abroad. There are no trading houses available which restricts the small businesses to
export to their desired markets. A combination of small business should be supported
and recognized as export houses.
3.3.12.1.2 Inadequacy of Market Surveys and Information
The small size of businesses does not allow them enough financial flexibility to purchase
credible market information. Moreover, there is no concerted effort by the government
to conduct market surveys and collate meaningful market information. The industry is
not connected to its consumers in the export markets and hence is also dragged down by
lack on customer feedback and input.
3.3.12.1.3 Inconsistent Presence at Trade Fairs/ Exhibitions
As the sector is largely fragmented and small in nature it has not benefitted significantly
from TDAP’s facilitation to participate in trade fairs and trade exhibitions. Consistent
year after year presence at trade fairs is extremely important to build credibility with
buyers. The sector does not have enough resources to participate at these fairs and
exhibition solely on their own. Government will have to assist them financially and
technically to represent their products to foreign buyers. Additionally government
through EDB can also facilitate the linkage of these producing clusters with buyer
clusters in foreign market. This can provide a jump start to exports.
3.3.12.1.4 Trade Delegations
EDB and the government will have to work on strategic plan to use diplomatic ties to
create trade links. The high powered delegations from Pakistan should also include a
representative of the engineering sector (possible EDB) to work on developing trade ties
via diplomacy. Currently no such representations follow such visits.
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