Peshawar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Caretaker Minister for Industries and Crafts, Technical Education and Amalgamation Affairs, Dr. Aamir Abdullah, embarked on a significant visit to Nowshera, marking a new phase of industrial development in the region. During his visit, Dr. Abdullah laid the foundation stone of a state-of-the-art splint manufacturing unit within the Export Processing Zone, a project fueled by a substantial Canadian investment of 16 million US dollars.
According to Directorate General Information and PRs – Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, this new unit is poised to become the largest of its kind globally, surpassing the current leader with its eight assembly lines compared to the latter’s three. This venture is not only a testament to the region’s growing industrial capabilities but also a beacon for employment opportunities, with around 800 jobs expected to be generated, 60% of which will be allocated to women. Additionally, this project adheres to international labor standards, ensuring a conducive working environment for its workforce.
The minister’s day-long visit also included the inauguration of three more manufacturing units within the Nowshera Economic Zone, focusing on leather, plastic, and pipe production. These units, representing a collective investment of 210 million rupees, are anticipated to create jobs for approximately 330 individuals. Furthermore, Dr. Abdullah inspected an under-construction soap and chemicals industry unit in the economic zone, a 500 million rupee project expected to employ around 250 people.
Upon his arrival, Dr. Abdullah was received by CEO of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Economic Zones Development and Management Company, Javed Iqbal Khattak, along with other officials. They provided a comprehensive briefing on the master plan for both the economic and export processing zones. Significantly, six ailing industries have been revitalized in the processing zone through the company’s efforts.
The caretaker minister lauded the establishment of these factories as a crucial step towards the province’s economic growth. He expressed optimism that the current investment-friendly policies would continue to attract more investors to the region. Dr. Abdullah also commended the team of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Economic Zones Development and Management Company for their efforts in securing the Canadian investment and assured continued support for these initiatives.
During the visit, Dr. Abdullah participated in a ceremonial tree plantation at the new units and was honored with a guard of honor by the Rescue 1122 team.