Peshawar: The Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry Peshawar (WCCIP), in collaboration with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Economic Zones Development and Management Company (KPEZDMC), organized an industrial exposure visit for 18 women entrepreneurs to Hattar Economic Zone, providing participants with first-hand exposure to industrial operations and encouraging greater participation of women in manufacturing and value-added businesses.
The initiative was organized following WCCIP’s request to KPEZDMC for institutional support. In collaboration with the Hattar Industrial Association (HIA), KPEZDMC coordinated a structured learning visit to strengthen linkages between women-led enterprises and the province’s industrial sector.
The delegation was welcomed by Acting Chairperson of HIA, who briefed participants on the importance of Hattar Economic Zone, its contribution to the economy of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and the opportunities and challenges associated with industrial development.
During the visit, the entrepreneurs toured Qarshi Industries, Kim’s food factory, Venus Carpets, and Ghani glass limited. They observed modern manufacturing processes, quality management systems, production operations, and business practices while interacting with industry representatives to gain practical insights into industrial value chains, innovation, and business growth.
Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Quratulain, President of WCCIP, said:
“”Women’s economic empowerment requires more than training, it requires access to industries, markets, institutions, mentorship and opportunities. By bringing women entrepreneurs into industrial environments like Hattar, we are helping them see manufacturing not as a distant sector, but as a viable avenue for growth and investment. WCCIP believes that stronger partnerships between the public and private sectors are key to expanding women’s participation in the industrial economy and accelerating inclusive development across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Pakistan.”
Mr. Sheryar, Chief Executive Officer of KPEZDMC, said:
“At KPEZDMC, we are committed to creating an enabling environment where entrepreneurs can connect with industry, explore investment opportunities, and build meaningful partnerships. Facilitating initiatives like this reflects our commitment to supporting women-led businesses and strengthening the province’s industrial ecosystem.”
Ms. Afshan, Member of the Board of Directors, KPEZDMC, added:
“Women-owned businesses have significant potential to become part of industrial value chains. Exposure visits like this bridge the gap between entrepreneurs and industry, inspire innovation, and open new avenues for business expansion. We look forward to seeing more women entering the manufacturing sector.”
Hattar Economic Zone is one of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s leading industrial hubs, hosting industries across sectors including pharmaceuticals, food processing, engineering, glass, textiles, and chemicals. The exposure visit aimed to broaden participants’ understanding of industrial operations, quality standards, and the opportunities available within the province’s manufacturing sector.
WCCIPD thanked KPEZDMC, the Hattar Industrial Association, and the management of Qarshi Industries, Kim’s, Venus Carpets, and Ghani Glass for their cooperation and hospitality. The Chamber also acknowledged the dedicated coordination and support of Mr. Safeer, Member, Board of Directors, KPEZDMC.
WCCIP reaffirmed its commitment to working with public institutions, the private sector, and development partners to create more opportunities for women entrepreneurs, strengthen industrial linkages, and promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
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