[:en]COMMERCE REPORTER
LAHORE: Pakistan Flour Mills Association Chairman Asim Raza Ahmed has strongly condemned the government’s decision to increase fixed charges for industrial electricity consumers.

Speaking to a group of media persons, Ahmed termed the move devastating for the industry and demanded an immediate reversal of the decision.
The government ‘s decision would sound death knell for our industry, Ahmed said.
We are already struggling to survive in a challenging economic environment and this increase will only add to our woes.”
He pointed out the fixed charges would lead to a significant rise in production cost, making it difficult for industries to operate profitability.
He warned that the industry may be forced to shut down, resulting in wide spread unemployment and economic instability.
The association chief also criticized the government for not consulting industry stakeholders before making the decision.
“We urge the government to reconsider its decision and engage in meaningful dialogue with industry representative dialogue with industry representative should find a solution that works for all”, he concluded.[:]
