FPCCI says high power tariffs, FBR actions harm competitiveness

Business leaders have said Pakistan's high power tariffs must be brought in line with regional rates for the economy to grow, according to a report by Dawn. At receptions in Hyderabad, FPCCI patron S.M. Tanvir stated that electricity costs businesses 17 cents per unit locally, compared to seven cents elsewhere in the region, making competition impossible.

The FPCCI figures also criticised what they called coercive actions by the Federal Board of Revenue against industrialists and businessmen. They urged the government to resolve issues of multiple taxes, institutional oversight, and the fuel crisis.

Mr Tanvir argued that independent power producers have undermined Pakistan's future. He said his group analysed the country's economic issues after winning FPCCI elections and identified the power cost disparity as a critical problem.