ISLAMABAD, Feb 19: Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of Cabinet Tuesday directed for a task force formation to give concrete proposals on development and export of manpower.

The task force would be headed by special assistant on overseas and human resource development, a finance ministry press statement said.  The meeting was presided over by Minister for Finacne Asad Umar.

The Ministry of Overseas Pakistanis and Human Resource Development (OP&HRD) briefed the ECC about the current position of manpower export to different countries and efforts for seeking employment opportunities in international labour market including the gulf countries.

The Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training informed the ECC that it has a data bank of over 600,000 skilled manpower, who have graduated from the NAVTCC platform.

Meanwhile, Ministry of Industries and Production presented to the ECC an update on the current status of NAB cases regarding Pakistan Steel Mills.

The ECC expressed concern on slow progress of the cases and directed that the cases should be actively pursued.

The ECC further directed that a case should be initiated for placement of names of personnel under investigation in different cases on exist control list.

The committee considered and approved proposal of Commerce Division for amendments in the Import Policy Order 2016, further beefing up existing labeling requirements for import of edible, specially halal products.

The step would ensure clarity on ingredients of the imported products in Urdu language for benefit of the consumers.

Ministry of National Food Security and Research apprised ECC about demand and supply situation of Urea and DAP fertilizers in the country.

The ECC directed for continued operation of the two urea plants beyond the month of February till October to ensure sufficient supply/stock of the fertilizer; Ministry of Industry would accordingly submit proposal to the ECC on operation of the plants.

A review of the fertilizer stocks in the country would be taken in August for necessary course correction, if needed.

Federal Board of Revenue shared with the ECC a report, highlighting the current position of auction of abandoned containers/ lots and also elaborating the procedures for clearance/ disposal of consignments at ports along with the challenges faced in the process.

The ECC while laying emphasis on simplification of procedures and promotion of e-clearance, directed formation of a committee headed by Minister for Maritime Affairs to prepare proposals for prompt and efficient cargo clearance (both containers and vehicles) at the ports to reduce the port congestion and improving ease of doing business.

The committee would share its proposals with the ECC in two weeks.

(APP)

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