Engr. Kashif Zafar Founder and Managing Director, Green T&D (Pvt) Ltd talks to Engineering Post
In a world increasingly defined by self-reliance and industrial innovation, Pakistan stands at pivotal crossroads. While nations such as China, India, and various European countries have solidified their positions as global economic powerhouses through strategic localization and manufacturing, Pakistan’s progress is hindered by short-term thinking and a lack of systemic vision. For Engr. Kashif Zafar, the path forward is unmistakable: Pakistan must pivot towards local manufacturing, supported by government initiatives, infrastructure enhancements, and youth empowerment. In an exclusive discussion with Engineering Post, Kashif Zafar lays out a roadmap to transform Pakistan’s economy, one that prioritizes long-term growth over ephemeral gains.
At the heart of Pakistan’s industrial stagnation, Engr. Kashif Zafar identifies a pervasive ‘trader mindset’ that prioritizes quick profits over sustainable development. He explains, ‘People here operate with a trader mindset and focus solely on short-term gains; they think only of themselves, not of the country.’ This mentality, he argues, has stifled innovation and rendered Pakistan dependent on imports for even basic goods. While nations like China have built their economies by first mastering local production and then exporting globally, Pakistan’s business community remains fixated on immediate returns.
Engr. Kashif Zafar highlights a stark contrast: “Countries like China, India, and various European nations, now recognized as major economic powers, initially manufactured products domestically. After rigorous testing, they distributed those products globally. In contrast, we lack that vision.” This has led to a dependence on foreign goods, which drains foreign reserves and hampers job creation. For example, while Pakistan imports safety pins and lighters from China, it possesses the capability to produce advanced machinery such as fighter jets. “We have the capability and talent, but we are still not using them effectively,” laments Kashif Zafar.
To break this cycle, Mr. Kashif proposes a phased strategy for local manufacturing, beginning with partnerships with established global players. ‘We don’t need to manufacture all components from scratch. Instead, we should focus on localization by first assembling products locally and then gradually transitioning to full production here,’ he explains. He envisions collaborations with Chinese firms, where Pakistani companies start by assembling imported parts before moving to full-scale production.
Upgrading Pakistan’s testing infrastructure is critical to this plan. Currently, transformers and switchgears are tested at the Rawat Laboratory; however, Mr. Kashif insists that it must meet international standards to gain credibility. He states, “If the government upgrades the Rawat Lab and obtains accreditation from STL Lab and other global bodies for all testing requirements, we can conduct type testing here.” Such accreditation would reduce dependence on foreign laboratories, lower costs, attract investment, and foster the growth of the local industry.
Local manufacturing isn’t just a patriotic endeavor it’s economically transformative. Kashif Zafar provides a compelling example: “An Air circuit breaker imported for $1,000 could be locally manufactured with $250 of raw material, adding manufacturing cost and profit, the complete product can be sale at $500 approximately.” This 50% cost reduction would slash Pakistan’s import bill, conserve foreign exchange, and create jobs. Once products meet global standards, He adds, you can start exporting and grow country’s GPD.
The potential extends beyond individual products. Mr. Kashif Zafar highlights switchgear manufacturing as a sector ripe for growth. With improved laboratories and government support, Pakistani firms could showcase their goods at international exhibitions. ‘Many governments offer up to 60% rebates for exhibition expenses. Specifically, China provides manufacturing facilities and local bank financing with very low markups on loans for machinery purchases and raw materials. If our government does the same, our manufacturers can compete globally,’ he says. This exposure would help build brands and forge partnerships, transforming Pakistan into a regional manufacturing hub.
Pakistan’s demographic dividend, with 64% of its population under the age of 30, presents both an opportunity and a challenge. ‘Our labor costs range from $100 to $150 per month, making them among the lowest in the world,’ asserts Mr. Kashif Zafar. However, capitalizing on this potential requires systemic changes, including improved vocational training, increased wages for skilled workers, and policies aimed at retaining talent.
He critiques the status quo, asserting, “Young engineers leave for abroad because they are not compensated well here.” To tackle this issue, Mr. Kashif urges companies to invest in training and collaborate with organizations like the Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC). He suggests that “PEC can enforce standards to ensure that engineers are internationally certified. Companies with trained staff should receive better ratings.” He believes that offering higher salaries and more career advancement opportunities would make engineering an attractive field once again.
While initiatives in the private sector are vital, Kashif Zafar stresses that government support is also essential. He points to the 2022 import restrictions as a missed opportunity: “When imports were banned, I proposed that we view it as a chance to enhance local manufacturing. However, without the right policies in place, nothing changed.
To spur growth, he advocates for the establishment of tax-free zones at the ports of Karachi and Gwadar, improvement of security conditions, and the development of infrastructure. These ports could serve as hubs where raw materials are imported duty-free, manufactured and assembled locally, and then re-exported as finished goods, he explains. Such zones are common in the UAE and Singapore, where they help reduce costs and attract foreign investors. Additionally, Mr. Kashif calls for long-term planning: “This won’t happen overnight. We need a plan with clear targets spanning at least ten years.
Kashif Zafar’s experience in switchgear production exemplifies his vision. He emphasizes the importance of rigorous quality benchmarks: switchgear manufacturers should be assessed based on facility size, international partnerships, human resources, and certifications after product type testing. According to him, these ratings would foster trust in Pakistani products both locally and internationally.
Training is equally vital. Green T&D invests in upskilling engineers through workshops and collaborations with global firms. “We’ve observed that when engineers are trained on IEC standards from international bodies, our products meet export demands.
For Engr. Kashif Zafar, Pakistan’s youth are the linchpin of economic revival. “Young, passionate leaders should head key departments. They should be given autonomy and mentorship,” he urges. He envisions public-private partnerships where fresh graduates can work on infrastructure projects, gaining hands-on experience.
Educational reforms are also essential. “Universities must align their curricula with industry needs, focusing on robotics, automation, and renewable energy,” he says. By bridging the gap between academia and industry, Pakistan can cultivate a workforce ready to tackle the challenges of the 21st century.
Engr. Kashif Zafar’s blueprint for Pakistan hinges on patience, collaboration, and audacious goals. “Economic strength comes from making things ourselves. Local manufacturing is the key, but we need urgency,” he declared. A 10-year plan focused on localization, export promotion, and youth empowerment could position Pakistan as a regional manufacturing powerhouse.
The stakes are high. Without action, Pakistan risks falling further behind in the global economy. But with leaders like Engr. Kashif Zafar championing systemic change, there’s hope. As he puts it: “We’ve made fighter jets why not safety pins? Let’s stop thinking small and build a future where Pakistan isn’t just surviving but thriving.”
Kashif’s message is a rallying cry for the betterment of the country: prioritize the nation over individual gain, invest in the young, and dare to manufacture. The time to act is now.
Massage to Nation from Mr. Kashif Zafar are;
Production, Production, Production
Export, Export, Export
