ISLAMABAD: The National Assembly Standing Committee on Commerce convened at Parliament House under the leadership of Mr. Muhammad Jawed Hanif Khan, where it deliberated on significant legislative proposals and policy issues, recommending the Copyright (Amendment) Bill, 2026, and the Insurance Bill, 2026, for passage by the National Assembly.

According to National Assembly of Pakistan, the Committee’s agenda included the review of the Copyright (Amendment) Bill, 2026, the Insurance Bill, 2026, and the Trade Organizations (Third Amendment) Bill, 2026. The Committee received comprehensive briefings from the Secretary, Ministry of Commerce, on the impact of regional conflicts on Pakistan’s international trade and considerations related to the import of tea.

The meeting saw the presentation of a report by the Sub-Committee Convener on the legislative bills under consideration. Discussions highlighted the need for clear definitions of copyright protection for educational literary works, with the Ministry addressing this under Section 57 of the proposed legislation. The Committee conducted an extensive examination of the Copyright (Amendment) Bill, 2026, and recommended it for passage.

The Insurance Bill, 2026, also came under scrutiny, aiming to replace an outdated law over two decades old. The bill seeks to address regulatory gaps, enhance policyholder safeguards, and align with contemporary requirements. After detailed examination, the Committee recommended the Insurance Bill, 2026, for passage.

Consideration of the Trade Organizations (Third Amendment) Bill, 2026, was deferred due to the absence of the bill’s Mover.

The Committee was briefed on the adverse impacts of regional conflicts in Afghanistan, Iran, and the Middle East on Pakistan’s trade, with disruptions in supply chains and increased costs highlighted. Efforts to mitigate these challenges include diversifying shipping routes and enhancing air cargo operations.

The Chair concluded the meeting with gratitude for the members’ participation, attended by several MNAs and senior officers from relevant ministries and agencies.