The second edition of lifestyle expo “Aalishan Pakistan” at Pragati Maidan that concluded on Sunday evoked mixed reactions from the exhibitors. While some termed it a disappointment in terms of sales and attitude of people in general, some claimed the response was the best ever.
Tabassum Fatima, a young designer from Classic Boutique, was among the unhappy souls. “I had an extremely bad experience in India both in terms of government policies, transports, buyers and people in general. Most of us did not get visas. For those who got, reporting to the police at the border was harassing. We were made to sit from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. We were not fully informed about the sales tax and other different ‘taxes’. We also had to pay hefty amounts at the customs. For just 10 suits in a carry bag, which didn’t add up to the prescribed weight, I had to shell out Rs 30,000. Some of our cargo also got stuck due to floods in Kashmir and we made a huge loss.” She also added that she feels India doesn’t respect its women. “Yahan khwateeno ki izzat nahi hai. It was raining heavily and we looked for autos here. They wouldn’t stop and whizzed past splashing water on us. In Pakistan, the drivers stop by and take us to our destination without bothering about the money.”
Most sellers also complained about the bargaining habit of the customers here. Fiza Ahmad (name changed on request) said: “A shirt that I sell in Lahore/Islamabad for Rs. 3,000 was sold by me for just Rs 1,000 here as I didn’t want to go back empty handed. But people insisted we sell it for a mere Rs. 300, which is impossible for us. Also, many buyers here snatch and wear the items without permission..”
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To the contrary, Qasim Butt of Belda Mos Collection said he had a wonderful experience. “Though we had problems at the customs but they eventually accommodated us. Yes people did bargain but they bought a lot too. They all came as if it was a picnic for them. I would like to come here again and again. I think the government should encourage free trade between the two countries.”