SMEs set for global market expansion push

Haroon Akhtar Khan, Special Assistant to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting small and medium enterprises (SMEs) by connecting them with international markets and boosting exports.

He expressed these views while chairing a high-level meeting that brought together SME clusters and trade and investment counselors from several key countries, including China, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Australia, Indonesia, and Hong Kong.

During the meeting, Haroon Akhtar Khan highlighted that Pakistan’s SMEs have immense potential to increase exports under the “Made in Pakistan” banner. He pointed out that products such as organic salt, honey, and plastic goods could find strong demand in international markets. Additionally, locally produced household cleaning and floor care products also have the capacity to gain global recognition.

He emphasized the critical role of trade and investment officers in creating business-to-business (B2B) opportunities for Pakistani enterprises. Organizing international expos and symposiums, he said, could significantly enhance SMEs’ access to global markets. He cited the example of honey from Karak being exported to Malaysia as evidence of the sector’s growing capability.

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The adviser further directed SMEDA and trade officials to actively facilitate SMEs by identifying new opportunities and strengthening linkages with foreign buyers. He noted that collaboration with Australian counterparts could help connect local auto parts and honey producers with importers.

Highlighting future prospects, he added that SMEs could also enter the electric vehicle parts market through joint ventures. The government is placing special focus on promoting SMEs in regions like Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Kashmir, and Balochistan, along with enhancing branding, training, and export guidance to support sustainable economic growth.