More than 150 industrial units in Faisalabad have shut down due to security concerns and policy-related challenges, leaving nearly 150,000 workers unemployed, representatives of the business community told Federal Minister for Board of Investment Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh during his visit to the city.
The issue was raised during a meeting between the minister and office bearers of the Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry, where industrialists said several businesses had also shifted their operations abroad amid mounting pressures on the sector.
Earlier, the minister visited the Faisalabad Industrial Estate Development and Management Company to review progress on Special Economic Zones and assess issues related to their development and occupancy.
According to an official statement, the minister said FIEDMC is a critical hub for Pakistan’s industrial growth and that the government, under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, is committed to resolving issues faced by the industrial community.
He said existing bottlenecks at FIEDMC would be addressed to make the estate more functional, stable, and attractive for both local and foreign investors.
Referring to his association with Chiniot, a district known internationally for its furniture industry, the minister said he understands the importance of industry and the practical challenges faced by manufacturers. He said investment promotion remains a government priority, as industrial growth is essential for strengthening the national economy.
The minister said the concerns raised by industrialists reflect real, on ground issues rather than procedural matters. Acknowledging challenges on both sides, he said collective efforts are required to move the country forward.
He pointed to recent economic improvements, including higher foreign exchange reserves, and said the finance minister has been directed to maintain continuous engagement with stakeholders to ensure practical resolution of industrial issues.
Chairman FIEDMC Rana Azhar Waqar briefed the minister on the status of Special Economic Zones, saying that by 2025, 90 factories had been established at FIEDMC. He added that 26 additional factories have since been set up, while development work on 31 more units is currently underway.
Additional Secretary Board of Investment Arfa, Chief Executive Officer FIEDMC Qurratul Ain, and other senior officials were also present during the briefing.
During the meeting with the chamber, FCCI President Farooq Yousaf Sheikh and Vice President Asim Munir highlighted security concerns and policy uncertainty as major challenges. They said the closure of over 150 industries has resulted in widespread job losses, while several industrialists have relocated their units overseas.
The minister said the concerns raised were genuine and assured the business community that they would not be ignored. He said steps would be taken to strengthen FIEDMC and other industrial zones.
Later, the minister visited the factory of industrialist Mian Mansha, where discussions focused on direct container transportation from Karachi Port to FIEDMC, reduction in logistics costs, rail based freight movement, and improved railway connectivity linking Faisalabad and Chiniot with major trade routes.
Mian Mansha offered to prepare feasibility studies and provide support in funding and financing to help expedite these initiatives.
The minister said the Board of Investment would continue working with stakeholders to facilitate industrialists, strengthen Special Economic Zones, and promote a business friendly investment environment across the country.