ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced on Monday that Pakistan will focus on strengthening small and medium enterprises (SMEs), research and development, and innovation to accelerate export growth. This declaration came during a government review of the national export growth strategy.
Chairing the meeting on national exports, Sharif highlighted the critical role of export-driven industries in the country’s overall development. He emphasized that facilitating these industries remains a top priority for the government.
In a significant development, the prime minister instructed officials to formulate a comprehensive roadmap aimed at providing targeted government support to SMEs connected to export expansion. Additionally, he called for the creation of a strategy to encourage the emergence of new export-oriented industries.
Sharif underscored that increased investment in research, development, and innovation is essential to enhance the competitiveness of Pakistani products in international markets.
He also urged authorities to ensure the prompt disbursement of tax refunds to exporters, addressing a long-standing concern within the business community.
The meeting included a review of a draft export growth strategy, where officials delivered detailed presentations and participants contributed recommendations on policy measures to support export expansion.
This discussion takes place as Pakistan strives to stabilize its external accounts and broaden its export base amid persistent economic pressures.
Senior cabinet members present at the meeting included Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan, among others.
