KP has vast potential for industrial growth: governor

PESHAWAR — Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Governor Faisal Karim Kundi highlighted the province's vast potential for industrial development during a meeting of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Economic Zones Development and Management Company (EZDMC) on Monday. The governor stressed the need for a comprehensive and practical strategy to unlock this potential, create employment, and bolster the provincial economy.

Officials briefed the governor on the EZDMC's administrative structure, achievements, and future targets, including the 15 operational economic zones and plans to establish seven more. They reported that the company had already facilitated the creation of approximately 107,000 employment opportunities.

Governor Kundi emphasized that promoting industries could generate thousands of jobs and contribute to sustainable economic growth. He called for encouraging private sector investment by creating a business-friendly environment and facilitating investors through the Ease of Doing Business Policy. The governor directed authorities to address functional issues of economic zones on a priority basis, consult the Finance Department on land acquisition and payment-related matters, and convene meetings with federal and provincial departments to resolve confronting issues.

Governor Kundi stressed the need to address security concerns, site selection, and other administrative challenges facing economic zones, particularly those located in areas with law and order challenges. He directed authorities to expedite action on financial issues, legal disputes, and remove all obstacles affecting the functionality of economic zones, ensuring early progress on pending matters.