ISLAMABAD, Jul 23 (Alliance News): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif led a meeting of the National Export Development Board on Tuesday, setting a goal to increase Pakistan’s annual exports to $60 billion within three years.
The Prime Minister directed the commerce ministry and related departments to take all necessary steps to reach this target. He noted that Pakistan’s exports surpassed $30 billion last year, with IT exports exceeding $3.2 billion.
He tasked the ministry to address exporters’ issues and report back in two weeks. He also committed to personally chairing the National Export Development Board meeting every six weeks.
Shehbaz Sharif praised the business community and investors for their efforts to boost exports despite challenging conditions. He urged the commerce ministry to finalize policy proposals in collaboration with potential export sectors and asked the Ministry of National Food Security to enhance agricultural exports.
The Prime Minister emphasized the importance of reducing shipping times for Pakistani goods to Europe and America and instructed relevant ministries to facilitate the transfer of Chinese export industries to Pakistan.
He highlighted the need for research, innovation, and brand development to increase exports and warned the Federal Board of Revenue against any delays in refunds to exporters. Additionally, he urged trade officers in Pakistani missions abroad to promote exports and assist exporters.
The Prime Minister also called for a plan to provide low-cost electricity to industries and stressed the private sector’s involvement in national development and policymaking.
Export sector representatives praised Shehbaz Sharif’s regular meetings and his commitment to addressing their concerns. They also appreciated the timely refunds initiative by the FBR.
The meeting included Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, several federal ministers, state officials, and representatives from textiles, IT, leather, agriculture, and other sectors.
