The recently concluded Pakistan Mega Show at the Expo Center in Lahore has left a trail of disappointment and disillusionment among exhibitors, tanneries, and leather product manufacturers.
Despite the lofty expectations, the event failed to attract significant international customer interest, exposing the inefficiencies of the Pakistan Tanners Association (PTA) and the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP).
The show’s underwhelming performance has sparked concerns about the declining leather business in Pakistan, which has been on a downward spiral since last year.
The government’s lack of attention to this critical sector has only exacerbated the problem. Moreover, the PTA’s monopolistic tendencies, characterized by high registration fees, have prevented many small-scale tanneries from registering with the association.
With only 152 out of approximately more than 1000 tanneries in Pakistan registered with the PTA, the association’s claim to represent the interests of the entire leather industry rings hollow. The exorbitant fees have created a barrier to entry, allowing the monopoly to sustain itself and stifling competition.
The failure of the Pakistan Mega Show can be attributed to several factors
Including:
1. Lack of effective marketing
The event’s promotional efforts failed to generate sufficient buzz, resulting in poor attendance from international customers.
2. Inadequate representation
The PTA’s limited membership and monopolistic tendencies meant that the show did not accurately represent the diversity and complexity of Pakistan’s leather industry.
3. Insufficient support from TDAP
The trade authority’s failure to provide adequate support and resources to the event organizers and exhibitors contributed to the show’s lackluster performance.
The consequences of this failure are far-reaching. Exhibitors and tanneries have expressed disappointment and frustration, with many considering not booking stalls for next year’s event.
The decline of the leather industry in Pakistan will have a ripple effect on the economy, leading to job losses and reduced exports.
To arrest this decline, the government must take immediate action to address the concerns of the leather industry
This includes:
1. Providing support to small-scale tanneries
The government should offer incentives and subsidies to help small-scale tanneries register with the PTA and participate in international events.
2. Reforming the PTA
The association’s monopolistic tendencies must be addressed, and efforts should be made to increase its membership and representation.
3. Enhancing TDAP’s role
The trade authority must be given more resources and autonomy to support the leather industry and promote Pakistani leather products internationally.
The Pakistan Mega Show’s failure serves as a wake-up call for the government and the leather industry. It is essential to take corrective measures to revitalize the industry and ensure its long-term sustainability.
