Islamabad: Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan has advocated for increased access to export credit insurance and financing to aid Pakistani exporters in entering new markets and managing payment risks, with a focus on small enterprises and first-time exporters.

According to Press Information Department, the Minister made these remarks during a meeting with EXIM Bank Chief Executive Officer Shahbaz H. Syed, attended by Secretary Commerce Jawad Paul. Khan stressed the need for export support to reach emerging businesses and smaller producers seeking international market entry, highlighting that access to capital, practical guidance, and risk protection could help them grow into established exporters.

The Minister proposed enhanced coordination between EXIM Bank and Pakistan’s trade and investment officers abroad to identify opportunities, facilitate business contacts, and support exporters in destination markets. He also encouraged EXIM Bank to explore cooperation with international export credit agencies and financial institutions to broaden financing opportunities.

During the meeting, Shahbaz H. Syed explained that EXIM Bank’s export credit insurance protects exporters against specified commercial and political risks. Coverage could extend to 90 percent of the insured risk, subject to terms and assessment, with exporters retaining a share of the exposure. Syed emphasized the role of commercial banks as potential partners for export credit insurance, supporting access to financing based on insured export receivables.

Secretary Commerce Jawad Paul highlighted the importance of linking insurance protection with practical financing arrangements. The discussion explored cooperation among EXIM Bank, commercial banks, and other financial institutions to help exporters use insured transactions to secure working capital and pursue growth.

The meeting also addressed the financing needs of small enterprises and the importance of long-term investment in production capacity. Khan encouraged EXIM Bank to engage more actively in trade exhibitions, like FoodAg, to provide guidance on insurance and financing options. Participants discussed organizing technical sessions and considering the Prime Minister’s involvement in exhibition activities.

The meeting emphasized the need for closer institutional coordination to enhance export support, strengthen exporters’ confidence, and encourage participation in international trade.