‘Strengthen trade links’ Kashmir Inc eyes Canada market

BILAL HUSSAIN

SRINAGAR, Apr 4: The apex business chamber of the valley, Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industries (KCCI), is mulling to strengthen business tie-ups with Canada. “We will approach Canadian chamber for their support to promote Kashmir products in Canada,” president, KCCI, Nazir Ahmad Dar said.
At present there are almost non-existent trade links between Canada and Kashmir. The KCCI in a step forward has invited some Canadian delegates to the Valley. “We have sent invitation to good number of Canadians and so far have received decent response,” Dar adds.
Director, Kanwal Foods and Spices (I) Pvt. Ltd. —spices manufacturers having global presence— Farooq Amin told Kashmir Times that they do have once sent a consignment to Canada. “Since then we have too many enquire from Canada. Canadians take lots of non-vegetarian so we do have lots of potential there at. We are planning to expand to Canada as there is huge market for the species which we can cater,” Amin adds.
The Kanwal Foods and Spice is planning to export Wazwan to Canada but due to little shelf-life it is yet to happen. “We are working on it and expect to increase shelf-life of Wazwan by one year then we will export it to Canada,” he adds.
According to Amin the government should pro-actively promote Kashmir products including handicraft products to the foreign countries that will boost the local economy. “Our products can compete at international markets provided we ensure quality. All we have to do is raise aware¬ness level among the business community here,” he believes.
While, Nazir Ahmad Dar said that the KCCI would provide all possible support and help to entrepreneurs and the existing business houses here so that they would export their products to Canada. “Government too should join us in this endeavor. Promotion of trade ties with Canada to some extent can address unemployment problems of the state,”
he mentions.
President KCCI considers that the business persons and young entrepreneurs from the state should participate in the buyer and seller meet in Canada. “Government should support such initiatives,” he states.
To mention, Indian exports to Canada include readymade garments, textiles, cotton yarn, carpets, gem and jewellery and precious stones, organic chemicals, coffee, spices, light engineering goods, iron and steel articles, footwear and leather products. Some major Imports from Canada include newsprint, wood pulp, asbestos, potash, peas, iron scrap, copper, minerals, and industrial chemicals.