Interview with Mr Anis Majeed – Chairman, Bombi’s Group
PAGE: Tell me something about yourself and your business please:
ANIS MAJEED: I am Chairman of Bombi’s Group. I have served as Convener Pulses Committee of Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI). I have also served as Chairman Karachi Wholesales Grocers Association (KWGA), Managing Committee member of Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) and General Body Member of FPCCI. I am part of various other business and social associations to give services for Trade and Industry. I have been in the commodities business for more than 35 years. I along with my brothers inherited pulses processing unit which was established by my father more than 50 years ago. By the Grace of Allah, the company grew and started indenting, importing and exporting various agro commodities globally. Alhamdulilah we are pioneers in our field and represent Pakistan at different National and International forums.
PAGE: What is your perspective about the import and prices of lentils?
ANIS MAJEED: Prices of pulses are a little high because of international market and our currency has devalued therefore landing cost is higher. We do import pulses which is about 75% of our total consumption. Pakistan’s production has been decreasing instead of increasing for a long time.
PAGE: Your views on the production of lentils in Pakistan:
ANIS MAJEED: Production of pulses must be increased as we are an agriculture-based country. We must give incentives to the farmers and they must be provided information about the modern methods of cultivation and modern machines need to be provided to the farmers. The farmers must be aware that if production increases they will have market to sale their product abroad. India has recently focused on enhancing local production of pulses and other commodities and imports only to support local consumption but the local farmers are given priority.
PAGE: How could Pakistan decrease the prices and become exporter of food items?
ANIS MAJEED: If we are successful in increasing the production by getting good yields then naturally prices will come down and we will be able to market for lesser price. By this way we can export the pulses. Our main focus should be towards agriculture research and development to support economy and reduce import of basic commodities.
PAGE: What is your take on export of rice?
ANIS MAJEED: By the Grace of Allah we have been exporting rice for more than 2 billion USD and if new seeds are introduced we can export more. The target of exporters is to export for 4 to 5 billion USD within a couple of years Insha Allah. As earlier said we should focus on Research and Development for enhancement of production by efficient farming practices.