The
gradual deregulation of POL products trade has opened new vistas for
investment. The fast changing market scenario and new entrants are
fueling competition. While the intense competition is expected to
shrink margin, the efforts will be to grab market share from
competitors. The giants of yesterday are losing market share to
companies offering better services and new entrants are trying to
establish their credentials. The key areas which offer investment
opportunities are: white oil pipeline project, POL storage facilities,
revamping and addition of new outlets.
PNSC
Record accumulated losses suffered by
state-owned Pakistan National Shipping Corporation during 1999-2000
has eroded the paid-up capital to a dangerously low level is posing
serious questions about its very survival. A fleet which comprises
vessels the majority of which have long passed their productive lives
and the mandatory implementation of the ISM Code in July next poses
additional problems for the financially troubled Corporation.
BARA
MARKETS
After having failed in numerous earlier
attempts to bring Bara Markets into some sort of tax net, the Central
Board of Revenue (CBR) has proposed a new customs amnesty scheme for
Bara traders with 15 per cent custom duty on every item. Shamim A.
Rizvi reports from Islamabad.
