‘Government should expand reach of products through trade accords’

FAISALABAD: Former President Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry Rehan Naseem Bharara has said that Pakistan’s commerce is an important sector of the country’s economy, which is managed by the Ministry of Commerce, which focuses on increasing exports, regulating imports, improving the business environment, and expanding the reach of Pakistani products through international trade agreements (such as GSP+, FTA, PTA). This includes institutions such as the promotion of e-commerce, trade policy, and Trade Development Authority, which aims to provide economic development and employment.

The Ministry of Commerce is the federal government agency responsible for trade, exports, imports, and implementation of trade policies. Exports: Textiles, leather, sports goods, and agricultural products (such as rice, fruits) are important export items while imports include oil, machinery, and chemicals. He further stated that Pakistan has signed several agreements with China, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Iran, and the European Union, which have given Pakistani products access to the international market, especially the GSP+ status.

The Ministry of Commerce also works to facilitate inter-provincial trade and business within the country. E-Commerce Online trade is being promoted in Pakistan, which has vast potential. Organisations Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), Chambers of Commerce, and other institutions work under this sector. The objectives are to increase the country’s economy, increase exports and balance imports, reduce business costs, and increase market access for Pakistani products at the international level.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026