SAPM envisions global leap for Pakistan’s SMEs

April 16, 2026 (MLN): Pakistan is set to intensify efforts to integrate its small and medium enterprises (SMEs) into global value chains as Special Assistant to the Prime Minister (SAPM) on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan on Thursday emphasized the need for stronger export linkages and international market access for the sector.

Chairing a high-level meeting with SME clusters and Trade and Investment Officers (TIOs) from key partner countries, the SAPM reviewed strategies to expand the global footprint of Pakistan’s MSMEs and enhance export performance through targeted facilitation and cross-border collaboration, according to APP.

The session brought together TIOs from China, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Australia, Indonesia, and Hong Kong, alongside Additional Secretary Industries and Production Asad Islam Mahni, CEO of SMEDA Ms. Nadia J. Seth, and representatives from SME clusters across Pakistan.

Reaffirming the government’s vision, Haroon Akhtar Khan stated that Prime Minister has prioritized empowering Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) by enabling them to access international markets and contribute more effectively to export growth.

He added that SMEDA is actively working to strengthen the long-term sustainability and competitiveness of the SME sector.

He noted that Pakistan’s SMEs hold significant export potential, particularly in products such as organic salt, honey, and plastic goods, which could achieve greater international penetration with improved facilitation and global partnerships.

The SAPM also highlighted strong export prospects for household care and floor-cleaning products manufactured by local SMEs, stating that these categories are increasingly competitive in global markets when supported by effective branding and market access.

He emphasized the critical role of Trade and Investment Officers in facilitating business-to-business (B2B) linkages and connecting Pakistani SMEs with foreign buyers. He further proposed organizing international expos and trade symposiums to provide exporters with direct access to global markets.

Highlighting a success case, he noted that honey from Karak is already being exported to Malaysia, demonstrating the growing international demand for Pakistani SME products when properly supported.

During the meeting, Haroon Akhtar Khan directed SMEDA and TIOs to actively identify and develop export opportunities for SMEs. He specifically suggested collaboration with the Australian TIO to connect Pakistan’s auto parts and honey exporters with Australian importers.

He also pointed to emerging opportunities in the electric vehicle (EV) supply chain, stating that Pakistani SMEs could enter EV component manufacturing through joint ventures, particularly with support from Chinese partners.

The SAPM further stressed the government’s special focus on promoting SME development in underdeveloped regions, including Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu & Kashmir, and Balochistan, by integrating them into export-oriented initiatives.

He instructed SMEDA to strengthen capacity-building programs for SMEs, particularly in branding, product development, and export readiness, to enhance their competitiveness in international markets.

The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment from all stakeholders to deepen cooperation between SMEDA, TIOs, and SME representatives, aimed at unlocking Pakistan’s export potential and driving sustainable economic growth.

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