ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the importance of export growth as a fundamental driver of Pakistan’s economic progress during a review meeting held on Tuesday. He urged authorities to diversify the export base, enhance product quality, and increase value addition to boost the competitiveness of Pakistani goods in international markets.

Chairing the session focused on export promotion and economic acceleration, Shehbaz instructed officials to prepare a wider range of sectors and industries for entry into global markets alongside the traditional export areas. He highlighted that export expansion should underpin the country’s overall economic development strategy.

He called for stringent measures to elevate the quality of Pakistani products to meet international standards, reinforcing quality assurance frameworks and ensuring compliance with global regulations. The prime minister also stressed the need for greater value addition to increase both the worth and competitiveness of exports worldwide.

In a significant development, Shehbaz directed the promotion of modern technology, research, and innovation within export-oriented industries. He advocated for the increased use of digital tools and advanced technologies to align Pakistan’s economy with evolving global demands.

Additionally, the prime minister urged the removal of administrative and business obstacles faced by exporters, aiming to make export procedures more efficient, transparent, and faster.

The meeting included a briefing on the progress of a strategic roadmap for export promotion. Discussions centered on expanding access to new international markets, diversifying export sectors, improving product quality, and facilitating business operations.

Officials highlighted ongoing efforts to enhance global market access through free trade agreements and preferential trade arrangements with friendly nations. The government is also working to incorporate horticultural products into the export portfolio and is encouraging local exporters to increase shipments of surgical and medical equipment by participating in international hospital tenders and procurement processes.

To further support exporters, Pakistan is organizing trade exhibitions such as TEXPO, the Health, Engineering and Minerals Show, and FoodAg across various cities to showcase Pakistani products to global buyers and companies.

Efforts are underway to update intellectual property laws to foster innovation in export sectors. The Export Development Fund has been restructured and is actively facilitating the business community.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, federal ministers Rana Tanveer Hussain, Jam Kamal Khan, Musadik Masood Malik, Ahsan Khan Cheema, Muhammad Aurangzeb, Prime Minister’s Adviser Haroon Akhtar, Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani, and officials from relevant institutions.