CEO Pepsi Africa, Middle East & South Asia Mr. Eugene Willemsen called on Prime Minister Imran Khan in Islamabad today.
Adviser to PM Mr. Abdul Razak Dawood and Chairman BOI Syed Zubair Haider Gilani were also present during the meeting.
Mr. Eugene Willemsen apprised the Prime Minister of Pepscico's existing investment portfolio in Pakistan employing around 60000 individuals directly as well as indirectly, and a network of approximately 700000 retailers across the country who rely on Pepsico products to make a living. Mr. Willemsen informed that Pepsico is amongst the highest tax payers in Pakistan. Highlighting the recent investments, including the successful inauguration of a new snacks plant in Multan, the CEO said that the Company has made investment to increase the capacity of its bottling plants and expanded its retail, distribution networks that have increased the number of jobs, generated additional economic activity and increased revenue for the Government.
Sharing Pespsico's commitment to the social development of Pakistan through various social projects, Mr. Willemsen expressed willingness to bring projects aimed at enhancing employment opportunities for Pakistan's talented youth. Mr. Eugene Willemsen especially expressed his interest in the development of potato crop in Pakistan through efficient irrigation system, and water conservation. While recalling Queen Maxima of Netherlands' visit to Pakistan last year, the CEO also highlighted the company's efforts for women empowerment and their financial inclusion aimed at uplift of society and growth in the country.
Prime Minister Imran Khan appreciated the existing business venture of Pepsico as well as its proposed future investment plans in Pakistan. The Prime Minister observed that the investment friendly policies of the present Government offer immense opportunities for foreign investors to expand their business in diverse fields. The Prime Minister welcomed the commitment of Pepsico towards social development of Pakistan and said that the Government would extend all possible facilitation to the Company for expansion of its business, including in the agriculture sector. Prime Minister Imran Khan also discussed with the Mr. Eugene Willemsen the possibility of development of the dairy sector of Pakistan owing to huge potential of the country in the dairy sector.
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