Islamabad: Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan convened a meeting with representatives from the Gujranwala Small Chamber of Commerce to address challenges facing Pakistan’s small and medium enterprises (SMEs), focusing on export promotion, industrial competitiveness, and regulatory reforms. The discussion highlighted the need for stronger SME support, export diversification, and industrial reforms to bolster Pakistan’s economic growth.

According to Press Information Department, Minister Khan emphasized the pivotal role of SMEs in employment, industrial development, and export growth. He reiterated the government’s commitment to strengthening SMEs as a key priority. The delegation underscored the impact of regional tensions on exports and advocated for exploring new markets in Africa, requesting government assistance for business-to-business meetings and trade delegations.

Minister Khan acknowledged Africa’s economic potential and urged businesses to explore emerging markets. The discussion also covered the high cost of doing business, with energy prices, taxation, and outdated machinery cited as major constraints. The Minister assured that the government is pursuing reforms to enhance industrial competitiveness and improve access to financing through the Export-Import Bank of Pakistan.

Concerns about sales tax refund delays, raw material shortages, and challenges for small manufacturers were also raised. Minister Khan emphasized the need for improved refund mechanisms and balanced policies to support both export growth and domestic manufacturing. He also highlighted efforts to simplify regulations and reduce business costs through digitalization and streamlined procedures.

The Minister concluded by inviting the Chamber to submit written recommendations for further examination, assuring them of the Ministry’s support in strengthening the SME sector and expanding Pakistan’s export base.