Chereads / Beyond steel and wheels / Chapter 19 - Chapter 17: A Booming Economy**.

Chapter 19 - Chapter 17: A Booming Economy**.

The success of Dewan Motors' **first car launch** marked a turning point, not just for the company but for Pakistan's **industrial sector**. With a renewed sense of confidence, the Dewan Group aimed to expand its business empire, capitalizing on an **improving economy** and new opportunities emerging in the **automotive, cement, and financial industries**.

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### **Economic Growth and Industrial Expansion**

The **early 2000s** saw a remarkable **economic boom in Pakistan**. Infrastructure projects surged, foreign investment increased, and consumer confidence rose. Dewan Yousuf Farooqui, ever the strategist, recognized the **golden opportunity**.

At a **board meeting at Dewan House**, key executives gathered to discuss their next move.

**Yousuf:** "Pakistan's economy is growing at an unprecedented rate. This is our time to expand aggressively."

**Salman Farooqui (COO):** "Our cement division is already benefiting from the construction boom. We should scale up production."

**Nadia Hussain (CFO):** "And the automobile sector? Car sales are rising, and demand is high. Should we introduce new models?"

**Sikandar Mehmood (Head of Operations):** "If we increase production capacity, we can meet demand without delays."

Yousuf smiled, seeing the enthusiasm in the room. **"Let's make history."**

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### **Dewan Cement: Strengthening the Backbone of Infrastructure**

With construction projects surging across **Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad**, Dewan Cement saw a spike in orders. The company's **cement plant in Hattar** operated at full capacity, supplying material for roads, bridges, and housing developments.

During a visit to the plant, Yousuf spoke with the workers.

**Worker:** "Sir, we're running at full speed, but demand is still growing. Do we have plans for expansion?"

**Yousuf:** "Yes. We are planning to **increase production capacity by 50%**. More jobs, more growth."

The workers cheered. **Dewan Cement was now a key player in the country's infrastructure revolution.**

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### **Automobile Industry: New Models and Market Expansion**

With the **Hyundai Santro's success**, Dewan Motors prepared to launch new models. The focus was on introducing a **midsize sedan** to compete with Honda and Toyota.

At a **strategy meeting**, the team reviewed market research.

**Salman:** "The Pakistani market is shifting. Consumers now want sedans with modern features."

**Nadia:** "Financially, we can support a new launch. We need a car that appeals to both families and professionals."

**Sikandar:** "Hyundai's Elantra could be the perfect fit. It's stylish, fuel-efficient, and well-priced."

Yousuf nodded. **"Then let's bring the Elantra to Pakistan."**

The announcement sparked excitement in the industry. **Dewan Motors was now a serious competitor in the automotive sector.**

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### **Banking and Finance: The Role of Dewan's Financial Arm**

Beyond cement and automobiles, the **Dewan Group expanded its financial services**. Dewan Salman Fibre, a leading **textile and polyester fiber** company, partnered with major banks to fund industrial growth.

At a **meeting with investors**, Yousuf outlined his vision.

**Yousuf:** "Pakistan's financial sector is evolving. Our goal is to provide businesses with the capital they need to grow."

**Investor:** "What about Dewan's own financial services? Will you launch a banking arm?"

**Nadia:** "We are exploring options. A dedicated financial division could support our **industrial expansions**."

As discussions continued, it became clear: **Dewan was not just a business group—it was shaping Pakistan's economic future.**

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### **Political Ties and Government Support**

With economic prosperity came **stronger ties with the government**. The Dewan Group worked closely with policymakers to support industrial growth.

At a **meeting with government officials**, the discussion focused on economic policies.

**Minister of Finance:** "Pakistan needs industrial leaders like you to sustain growth. How can we support your expansion?"

**Yousuf:** "Lowering import duties on car parts and providing tax incentives for cement production would be game-changers."

The government responded favorably, introducing **business-friendly policies** that benefited the **automotive and construction industries**.

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### **Conclusion**

Chapter 17 showcases Dewan Group's rise amid Pakistan's booming economy. With expansion in **cement, automobiles, and finance**, the group solidified its role as an **industrial powerhouse**. But with success came new challenges—competition, policy changes, and market shifts awaited. The journey was far from over.