Islamabad, Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan convened a high-level meeting aimed at bolstering Pakistan’s export sector and resolving longstanding challenges in business operations. The session, initiated under the directives of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, brought together key stakeholders including top exporters, business leaders, and representatives from various governmental sectors.
According to Press Information Department, the meeting aimed to create actionable solutions for the issues plaguing the export and business sectors. The committee was briefed on matters periodically communicated by significant bodies such as chambers of commerce, the Pakistan Business Council, and the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan. Minister Khan emphasized the necessity of involving high-ranking officials in decision-making processes to ensure effectiveness, highlighting the notable absences of the FBR Chairman, SBP Governor, and Secretary of Finance.
During the discussions, participants raised various concerns, including liquidity issues, high operational costs, and the need for an expanded Export Facilitation Scheme. Other significant points of discussion were tax facilitation, industry status recognition, and improvements in the management of Export Processing Zones. The lack of a regulatory body for shipping companies, tariff rationalization, infrastructure deficiencies, and security were also addressed.
The Minister reiterated the government’s dedication to fostering a conducive business environment and referenced a recent meeting led by Prime Minister Sharif with business leaders in Karachi, which focused on economic enhancement through increased exports. All issues raised were directed to pertinent departments for immediate action, with required feedback within 24 hours. The next committee meeting is scheduled for May 20 to review progress on these directives.