‘Stable policies essential for increasing exports, promoting industries’

LAHORE: Secretary, Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), Shahryar Taj, said that stable and clear policies along with active leadership from provincial governments are essential for increasing Pakistan’s exports and promoting industries.

He mentioned that TDAP organises multiple flagship events and international exhibitions across the country to create new opportunities for industrialists and exporters.

He was speaking at an event held at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI).

LCCI President Faheem ur Rehman Saigol delivered the welcome address. Senior Vice President Tanveer Ahmad Sheikh, Vice President SAARC Chamber Mian Anjum Nisar, TDAP Director General Rafia Syed, former senior Vice President Ali Hassam Asghar and executive committee members including Firdous Nisar, Syed Salman Ali, Amir Ali, Asif Malik, Rana Shoban Akhtar, and Abdul Majeed were also present.

Speaking on the occasion, Saigol said that increasing exports and promoting the manufacturing sector is crucial to strengthen the country’s economy. He highlighted that in the first five months of the fiscal year, the current account deficit has reached around USD 15.5 billion, and if this trend continues, it could reach USD 36 billion by the end of the fiscal year, which is extremely concerning.

He emphasised that Pakistan can increase its exports through market and product diversification, value addition, and promoting startups. He added that providing facilities for SMEs, startups, and the IT sector is a necessity, and producing products according to international standards can boost global demand.

He noted that Pakistan’s food exports, cotton production, and quality have declined, with long-fibre cotton being exported while lower-quality cotton remains in the local market. He stressed that there is huge potential in textiles, livestock, food processing, and Halal sectors, which can help increase exports.

Saigol warned that a USD 15 billion trade deficit could put pressure on the currency, leading to devaluation and inflation. Therefore, a favorable environment for exports must be created collectively, and misuse of SROs and tax exemptions should be stopped so that local industries and exporters benefit.

He called for initiatives in startups, IT, and the blue economy to boost Pakistan’s exports. He appreciated Rafia Syed’s efforts, noting her close coordination with LCCI and quick response.

TDAP Secretary Shahryar Taj said that TDAP organises annual flagship events in textiles, food & agriculture, health, engineering, and minerals. He shared results of the recent Food and Agriculture Exhibition in Karachi, which featured nine halls, 370 companies, 850 foreign buyers, and generated USD 730 million in business over three days.

He added that the target for horticulture and agriculture exports is USD 2 billion in the next three years, and a major event is being prepared in Lahore under the leadership of the Punjab government. He stressed that not only Punjab, but also Balochistan, Sindh, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa should take a leading role.

He also mentioned plans for a “Made in Pakistan” exhibition and fashion show in Bangladesh, creating new opportunities for Pakistani companies, especially women entrepreneurs. Around 90 percent of the costs were covered by TDAP, and the remaining 10 percent by participating companies.

Meanwhile, President of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry Faheem ur Rehman Saigol, has said that responsible corporate participation and fair taxation policies are essential for sustainable economic growth and improved revenue generation in Pakistan.

He was speaking during a meeting with Dr Faisal Hashmi, Senior Director, Coca-Cola PACS Pakistan & Afghanistan Region, who called on the LCCI president at the Chamber.

During the meeting, Dr Faisal Hashmi presented the Socio-Economic Impact Study to the LCCI President, highlighting the significant contribution of The Coca-Cola Company to Pakistan’s economy.

He shared that the company continues to play a transparent and responsible role by supporting economic growth, employment generation and value creation across its entire value chain.

The meeting held detailed discussions on taxation policies and their impact on businesses operating in Pakistan. Dr Faisal Hashmi reaffirmed The Coca-Cola Company’s commitment to contributing to national revenue and supporting the government’s fiscal objectives, while stressing the importance of a fair and level playing field for both multinational and local brands. Both sides noted that existing taxation structures pose serious challenges and increase the cost of doing business.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026