Islamabad: Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan has reiterated the Government’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment in Pakistan, emphasizing the simplification of regulations, promotion of industrial development, and facilitation of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to expand the country’s manufacturing base.
According to Press Information Department, the Minister shared these views during a meeting with a delegation from the Islamabad Chamber of Small Traders and Small Industries (ICSTSI). The delegation approached him to discuss various issues impacting SMEs, such as taxation, industrial infrastructure, ease of doing business, and export promotion.
The delegation expressed approval of the recent revision in the State Bank of Pakistan’s SME definition, which they believe will enable more businesses to access financial support and incentives within the formal sector. Minister Jam Kamal Khan assured the delegation of the Government’s dedication to reducing regulatory barriers and modernizing business processes through digitalization and institutional reforms.
The Minister highlighted ongoing efforts to simplify business registration through an integrated approach, enabling entrepreneurs to fulfill regulatory requirements before starting operations. He emphasized the importance of facilitating businesses to join the formal economy, rather than imposing additional compliance burdens.
The visiting delegation pointed out that a significant portion of Pakistan’s small business community remains self-financed and often avoids formal registration due to complex procedures and compliance costs. They proposed the establishment of dedicated small industrial zones in Islamabad, equipped with essential infrastructure, to support small manufacturers currently operating in residential and informal settings.
In response, Jam Kamal Khan acknowledged the potential benefits of organized industrial estates for SMEs, including improved productivity, product quality, and employment opportunities. The meeting also covered the growth of Pakistan’s food industry, e-commerce, and digital platforms, which are creating new business opportunities.
The delegation requested the establishment of a modern slaughterhouse in Islamabad, noting prior delays despite site identification and planning completion. They argued that such a facility would enhance hygiene, food safety, and halal meat export quality. The Minister recognized the importance of strengthening Pakistan’s livestock value chain and highlighted the potential economic value from better utilization of animal by-products.
Lastly, the Chamber proposed a 100-acre industrial project through a public-private partnership involving the Federal Government, Punjab Government, and private sector. Jam Kamal Khan encouraged the business community to propose viable projects, emphasizing the role of public-private partnerships and technological advancement in boosting Pakistan’s manufacturing sector and economy.