Lifestyle

Ban, what ban? Local alternatives to your favourite imported products

Usually when we hear the word “imported”, the first that comes to our mind is good quality products and when we hear the word “local”, we think of not so great, local quality products. However, more small- to medium-enterprises are now making better quality products at low costs. The government yesterday announced that luxury or non-essential commodities have been completely banned in the country to help the nation emerge from its financial crisis. After the announcement, many are wondering how will they get their hands on their favourite imported products.

The Current has complied a list of local products that you can as alternative to imported products.

Mobile phones

The production of mobile phones by local manufacturing plants has more than doubled against the import in the country during 2021. You will not be able to get your hands on Apple Iphones but you thankfully there are many locally made options, like Vivo, Techno, and Oppo among many others.

Home appliances

Major appliances, also known as white goods, comprise major household appliances and may include: air conditioners, dishwashers, clothes dryers, drying cabinets, freezers, refrigerators, kitchen stoves, water heaters, washing machines, trash compactors, and microwave ovens

Haier, is one of Pakistan’s most well-known brands, it also exports air conditioner. Dawlance, PEL, and Orient are three other important corporations that participate in Pakistani exports.

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Shoes

You can find some of the best shoes in Pakistani markets. Everyone loves khussas and apart from local bazars like liberty, zainab market and others, there are many local brands you can shop from.

Mochari, is a good local brand for shoes and bags.

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Sauces

Sauces are essential for good food. The government has banned imported sauces but you can try Pakistani brand Dipitt.

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Sanitary ware

Sanitary ware is an umbrella term that refers to sanitary appliances found in bathrooms and kitchens. There are local alternatives although they don’t last as long as the imported ones. But then apparently the ban is also temporary so perhaps wait before you remodel that bathroom or kitchen.

Tissue paper

I think it goes without saying that Rose Petal is the household name in Pakistan when it comes to tissue paper.

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Shampoos

We have personally heard some good reviews about Conatural’s shampoo. In addition, you can easily find local Sunsilk, Lifebuoy among others in local shops

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Confectionary

Thee are many local brands that can fullfil your sweet tooth, Candyland, Mayfair and Hilal.

Chocolates

You can get some really good chocolates from Lal’s.

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Cigarettes

Cigarettes are bad for your health but if you still going to smoke there are local alternatives of foreign brands.

Icecream

In the summer, one can’t live without icecream and Hico Pakistan makes some really good flavours.. Their cookie and cream is the best! Walls is another local alternative.

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Pasta

Bake Parlor Pasta is a good alternative to international brands.

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Juices

Imported juices have also been banned but have we don’t have to worry as we our own local brand for juices. Who does not love to drink Shezan mango juice in this weather? And Nestle fruit juices are also locally produced.

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A post shared by Shezan International Limited (@shezaninternationalltd)

Toiletries

Personal care items are necessary but a ban on imported items should not stop you from taking care of yourself. You can try many local brands.