Employees of the Utility Stores Corporation (USC) held protests in various parts of the country, expressing concerns over the organization’s potential closure. However, Minister for Industries and Production Rana Tanveer Hussain reassured the public that the USC is not being shut down; instead, the government intends to revamp the organization to ensure that deserving individuals receive relief and discounted prices on essential food items.
Minister Hussain emphasized that the government is already providing subsidies to those in need through programs such as Baitul Maal and Benazir Income Support. He also acknowledged the persistent issue of subsidy misuse in the country.
Amid this, the USC staff staged protests against the proposed closure, with employees in various cities chanting slogans against the government’s decision, fearing the loss of thousands of jobs. Minister Hussain’s statement came after the federal government announced its intention to wind up the USC as part of its strategy to rightsize federal ministries and institutions.
The USC, a state-owned enterprise with over 4,000 stores nationwide, is among the entities slated for privatization in the first phase of the government’s privatization strategy. During the protests, Secretary of Industries and Production Saif Anjum revealed that discussions about the USC’s closure or devolution to the provinces were ongoing.
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In a separate event, the 9th Colour and Chem Expo in Lahore featured over 300 exhibitors showcasing their products. During the expo, Minister Hussain highlighted the need to boost Pakistan’s exports, emphasizing Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s target to double the country’s exports within three years. Additionally, he addressed heavy taxes on the tractor industry, expressing hope for a positive outcome following discussions with relevant authorities.
Furthermore, Minister Hussain attributed the current political unrest to events in 2014 and emphasized the need to address instability. He also emphasized the importance of boosting domestic production in industries such as dyes and chemicals to reduce reliance on imports, citing the country’s significant import bill compared to its exports.
