ISLAMABAD, September 15: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday directed authorities to make exports a central driver of Pakistan’s economic growth, calling for diversification beyond traditional sectors, higher product standards and easier access to international markets.
Chairing a review meeting on exports and economic growth, the prime minister said more industries should be brought into export-oriented activities to diversify Pakistan’s trade base and improve the country’s competitiveness in global markets.
He directed relevant authorities to ensure Pakistani products meet international quality standards and regulations while strengthening quality assurance mechanisms.
The prime minister also called for greater value addition to increase the value and competitiveness of Pakistani goods instead of relying heavily on traditional or lower-value exports.
Technology, Innovation Key to Pakistan’s Exports
Shehbaz stressed the adoption of modern technology, research and innovation across export-oriented industries.
He said digitalisation and emerging technologies should be used to modernise the economy and bring businesses in line with changing international requirements.
The prime minister also directed authorities to remove administrative and business hurdles faced by exporters and make export procedures simpler, faster and more transparent.
Officials briefed the meeting on progress in implementing the government’s strategic roadmap for export promotion.
The meeting reviewed proposals for entering new international markets, diversifying export sectors, improving product quality and facilitating businesses.
Pakistan Eyes New Markets, Trade Agreements
Officials told the meeting that work was underway on free trade agreements and preferential trade arrangements with several friendly countries to expand market access for Pakistani products.
Measures are also being taken to bring more Pakistani horticultural products into the export basket.
The government is encouraging Pakistani exporters of surgical and medical equipment to participate in procurement processes and tenders issued by international hospitals, the meeting was informed.
The move is aimed at expanding Pakistan’s share in overseas markets for medical and surgical products.
Government Targets Wider Export Base
Officials said trade exhibitions and sector-specific events were being organised to connect Pakistani businesses with international buyers and companies.
These include TEXPO, Health Engineering and Minerals Show and FoodAg, alongside other sector-focused exhibitions in different cities.
The meeting was also informed that work was underway to update intellectual property laws to support innovation and export competitiveness.
Officials said restructuring of the Export Development Fund (EDF) had been completed and the fund was taking measures to facilitate the business community.
The prime minister stressed that Pakistan needed to improve the global competitiveness of its industries while expanding the range of goods and sectors contributing to exports.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan and other federal ministers, advisers and senior officials attended the meeting.