The ongoing protests by Sialkot tannery owners since 2021 highlight the critical need for relocating tanneries to the designated Sialkot Tannery Zone. This initiative, aimed at addressing environmental concerns and enhancing the industry’s sustainability, has been hindered by mismanagement under the Sialkot Tannery Association (Guarantee) Limited (STAGL).
A report by DC Abdullah Khurram Niazi (attached below) confirms these administrative failures, underscoring the urgent need for reform.
PTA’s Inaction and Lack of Representation
The Pakistan Tanners Association (PTA), which claims to represent the country’s tanners, has faced significant criticism for its silence and inaction regarding the challenges faced by Sialkot’s tannery owners.
Despite its mandate, the PTA has failed to effectively advocate for the industry’s interests or address critical issues such as plot allotment in the Sialkot Tannery Zone.
Additionally, the association’s lack of initiatives to promote sustainable and eco-friendly leather production raises serious concerns about its commitment to the industry’s long-term viability.
Steps Toward Industry Reform
To revitalize the tannery industry and address these pressing issues, the following measures are essential:
1. Workshop Programs:
The PTA and STAGL should organize workshops and training sessions to promote sustainable and eco-friendly leather production practices.
This would not only improve environmental compliance but also enhance the global competitiveness of Pakistani leather products.
2. Effective Representation:
The PTA must actively represent the interests of Sialkot’s tannery owners, ensuring their concerns are heard and addressed at both the provincial and federal levels.
3. Transparent Plot Allotment:
The PTA should take a proactive role in overseeing the plot allotment process within STAGL to ensure transparency and fairness, thereby restoring trust among stakeholders.
Role of the DGTO
The Director-General of Trade Organizations (DGTO) must clarify how an association like the PTA, with only 8-10% membership, can effectively represent the entire industry. This raises concerns about the legitimacy and inclusivity of the PTA’s role.
A Call for Independent Representation
Given the PTA’s shortcomings, tanners from Sialkot and Kasur should consider registering their own association with the DGTO. This would ensure their interests are adequately represented and help safeguard the future of the shrinking industry.
Conclusion
The Sialkot tannery industry stands at a crossroads. Without immediate action to address mismanagement, improve representation, and promote sustainable practices, the sector risks further decline. Stakeholders, including the PTA, STAGL, and the DGTO, must collaborate to implement reforms and secure the industry’s future.
Report of Committee Regarding Shifting of Tanneries & Allotment of Plots in Sialkot Tannery Zone Click here to read the full report.
2 thoughts on “How the Pakistan Tanners Association’s Inaction is Delaying Sialkot Tanneries Relocation and Reform”
The facts in article are not correct. Refrence report is coupple of years old. All the issues have already addressed. The writer has very little knowledge about the facts. May be want to achive some personal objectives.
The magazine management must check the facts before printing this kind of story. STZ is a technical project and a simple one.
And relocation is always a challenge in allover the world. However STZ is a success story in Pakistan.. construction from 200 tanneries has already started. Thr construction of Combine effluent treatment plant is already completed. Every corner in the country appreciates this initiative. It is a project of sialkot chamber of commerce and industry. The people who couldn’t foresee its success didn’t purchase in time plots are making false objections. However the stz management has given plots to all the tanners and the matter has successfully resolved.
Very interesting details you have remarked, regards for posting.