KARACHI: Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan said on Tuesday that the government is actively reviewing economic challenges and is making “all-out efforts” to bring down electricity tariffs for industries to boost competitiveness.
Speaking at the inauguration of the 3rd International Food and Agriculture Exhibition at the Expo Centre, the minister highlighted several key trade facilitation measures. He noted that the long-standing demand of exporters had been met with the abolition of the 0.25pc export surcharge.
Mr Kamal revealed that Pakistan is renegotiating multiple trade agreements, including the newly approved Free Trade Agreement with the Gulf Cooperation Council. He added that trade and investment cooperation with the United States is steadily expanding.
“For the first time, a trade map has been developed with the United Kingdom, with technical committees working at the secretary level,” he told reporters. He also pointed to Pakistan’s entry into new African markets and the success of its single-country exhibition in Ethiopia.
The minister said that the presence of representatives from nearly all major countries at the event reflects growing international confidence in Pakistan’s economic and trade potential. More than 850 foreign delegates attended the expo, many acknowledging the vast opportunities in Pakistan’s agriculture and industrial sectors.
Mr Kamal noted that Pakistani businesses have significantly improved their product value and secured greater international shelf space in recent years. He stressed the need to further enhance both the volume and the quality of exports to sustain growth.
