Press Release Title: Senator Saleem Mandviwalla, presiding over a meeting of The Senate Standing Committee on Industries and Production at Parliament House Islamabad.

Press Release Date: 22nd July, 2026

SENATE STANDING COMMITTEE ON INDUSTRIES AND PRODUCTION DELIBERATES ON EPZ POLICIES AND UPCOMING AUTOMOTIVE POLICY 2026-31 The Senate Standing Committee on Industries and Production convened today at Parliament House under the chairmanship of Senator Saleem Mandviwalla to review critical national industrial issues, including the operational future of Export Processing Zones (EPZs) and the proposed Automotive & Auto Parts Manufacturing Policy 2026–31. During the session, the committee addressed governance concerns regarding the Export Processing Zones Authority, inquiring into the prolonged absence of a permanent chairman. In response to procedural delays, the committee agreed to submit recommendations to the Federal Cabinet advocating for amendments to rules of procedure to streamline leadership appointments. Discussions also centered on the government's commitments under the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Extended Fund Facility (EFF) framework, which outlines the phase-out of incentives and prohibition of sales from EPZs to the domestic tariff area. Senator Mandviwalla urged private sector stakeholders and the Ministry of Industries and Production to collaborate closely in formulating unified proposals ahead of upcoming IMF review meetings. The committee also examined the draft Auto Policy 2026–31, designed to promote New Energy Vehicles (NEVs), enhance domestic value addition, and boost local manufacturing and exports. Industry representatives highlighted operational challenges, including tariff structures, high duty burdens on raw materials, and cost disadvantages faced by domestic producers. To address these concerns effectively, the committee directed automotive stakeholders to formally submit their grievances and announced plans to convene a joint meeting with officials from the Ministry of Commerce and the Ministry of Industries and Production next week to reach a comprehensive resolution.   Meeting was attended by Senators Syed Masroor Ahsan, Khalida Ateeb, Husna Bano, Special Assistant to Prime Minister and Secretary Ministry of Industries and Production along with Senior Officials and relevant stakeholders.