Boosting SMEs Will Increase Exports and Create Jobs, Says PM. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has said that a strong rise in exports is essential for Pakistan’s economic recovery and long-term stability. Speaking in Lahore on Saturday, he announced that the government is putting in place all possible facilities to help exporters increase shipments and compete better in global markets.
The prime minister made these remarks while chairing a high-level meeting on trade and industry. He stressed that export growth matters because it brings foreign exchange into the country and creates jobs for millions of people.
Focus on SMEs and Cottage Industries
The prime minister highlighted the role of small and medium enterprises and cottage industries in driving exports. He said Pakistan’s industrial future depends on a strong SME ecosystem that can produce quality goods, expand production, and employ more workers.
To support this goal, he directed the federal ministers for commerce, industries and production, and national food security to personally visit exporters in major industrial and commercial cities. These visits aim to identify problems on the ground and offer practical solutions.
Stronger Coordination With Provinces
The prime minister also called for better coordination between the federal government and the provinces. He said cooperation is especially important for promoting cold chain infrastructure and other sectors linked to industry and trade.
Cold chain systems help preserve agricultural and food products, reduce waste, and allow exporters to meet international quality standards. Improving these systems can open new markets for Pakistani goods.
Briefing on Trade Performance
During the meeting, officials briefed the prime minister on exports and imports recorded so far in the 2025–26 fiscal year. The review covered key trends, sector performance, and challenges facing exporters.
The prime minister reaffirmed that the government remains committed to supporting business owners. He said easing procedures, improving infrastructure, and offering policy support will help raise export volumes and strengthen the national economy.
Economic Impact and Job Creation
According to the prime minister, expanding exports will increase foreign exchange earnings and reduce pressure on the balance of payments. He added that higher exports will also lead to more factories, more services, and more employment opportunities across the country.
Senior ministers and officials attended the meeting, including Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan, Finance and Revenue Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, National Food Security Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain, Minister of State Bilal Azhar Kayani, and Adviser to the Prime Minister Haroon Akhtar.
What Happens Next
The government plans to continue direct engagement with exporters and industry leaders. Follow-up visits, policy reviews, and improved coordination with provinces are expected in the coming weeks to turn these commitments into results.
FAQs
Why is export growth important for Pakistan?
Exports bring foreign exchange and help stabilize the economy.
What role do SMEs play in exports?
SMEs and cottage industries create jobs and produce goods for local and international markets.
What is a cold chain system?
It is a temperature-controlled supply chain that preserves food and agricultural products.
Which ministers will visit exporters?
Ministers from commerce, industries and production, and national food security.
How will exporters benefit from government support?
They may get better facilities, easier processes, and improved infrastructure.
Conclusion
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has made export growth a central part of Pakistan’s economic strategy. By focusing on SMEs, improving coordination with provinces, and directly engaging with exporters, the government aims to boost trade, earn more foreign exchange, and create jobs. If these steps move from planning to action, they could play a key role in strengthening the national economy.
