Leading consumer goods manufacturer urges govt. to have more targeted approach to policy implementation

By Shabiya Ali Ahlam
In an effort to create a more conducive environment for homegrown brands to cater to the full requirement of the local market, a senior representative of a top diversified conglomerate urged the government to have a more targeted approach towards their policies as opposed to opting for blanket approach.

Hemas Holdings PLC Chairman Husein Esufally speaking to Mirror Business said efforts must be taken to make room for some selectivity for industries in the way certain policies are implemented.

Esufally was referring to the import restrictions the government has imposed on a large number of products, including key raw materials for certain industries which are essential to continue production.

“Certainly, the government can target industries which are not only providing essential products but are also providing employment, and supporting the livelihoods of so many families directly and indirectly.

They can target those types of businesses and make sure that there is some selectivity in the way they look at,” he said. Esufally pointed out that the interruption of production could eventually lead to reducing the capacity of manufacturers, and even result in factory closures, which in turn would result in reduced availability of products for consumption, and also put many people out of work.

He reiterates the need for policy measures to be well thought out so that local brands and manufacturers are able to step up efforts and cater to the demands of the local market, given that imports of finished goods across almost all product segments are frowned upon.