Islamabad: In a significant move to bolster the Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) sector, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has called for robust capacity building measures. Chaired by the Prime Minister, the inaugural session of the Steering Committee of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) convened to outline the future trajectory of SMEs in enhancing the nation’s economic framework.

According to Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the meeting emphasized the critical role of the SME sector as a cornerstone for national development. Prime Minister Sharif underscored the necessity of expanding SME exports to vitalize the country’s economy. Immediate actions directed included the operational activation of the SMEDA Board to facilitate this growth.

Further detailing the government’s strategy, the session highlighted the introduction of international expertise to refine SME operations and the integration of innovative technologies for sustainable practices, particularly in textile production. Moreover, initiatives are underway to empower women entrepreneurs by ensuring their substantial involvement in SME-related decision-making processes, reflecting their pivotal role in the economic domain.

The meeting also reviewed various facilitative measures like providing easier access to financing for new ventures, underlining a comprehensive approach towards the development of SMEs grounded in the latest data-driven strategies.