Interest-Free Loans of PKR 5 Billion Announced to Expand Pink Salt Business
Islamabad: The Punjab government has announced a major initiative to increase the production and revenue of pink salt by selling it as a branded product in the international market rather than as a raw commodity.
The Mines and Minerals Department has prepared a comprehensive plan, under which the business community will be offered interest-free loans. Under the Chief Minister’s Value-Added Finance for Pink Salt project, loans worth PKR 5 billion will be provided to promote the industry.
According to the summary sent to the Chief Minister, Punjab is the only region in the world where this rare pink salt is found. Providing easy loans is expected to expand the pink salt industry, create job opportunities, and increase foreign exchange earnings through global sales.
Natural deposits of pink salt are located in the districts of Mianwali, Khushab, Chakwal, and Jhelum. The plan emphasizes selling pink salt with local branding in the international market. The provincial cabinet has also approved the establishment of Special Mineral Processing Zones in Quaidabad and has banned the sale of pink salt in its raw form.
