Daraz, Alibaba urge govt to facilitate digital commerce

ISLAMABAD: As budget consultations for the fiscal year 2026-27 gather pace, leading e-commerce platforms, Daraz and Alibaba Group, have urged the government to adopt policies for facilitating digital commerce.

Representatives of Daraz and Alibaba Group said this during a meeting chaired by Minister of State for Finance and Revenue Bilal Azhar Kayani on Friday.

The delegation included Ben Yi, Daraz Group Chief Commercial Officer, Kamran Pervaiz, Director Corporate Affairs, and Umar Usmani, Director Government Affairs. Senior officials of the Ministry of Finance, including representatives from the Tax Policy Office (TPO), also attended the meeting.

The meeting was held as part of the government’s ongoing stakeholder consultation process ahead of the Federal Budget FY 2026–27.

Discussions focused on the evolving e-commerce landscape in Pakistan and the role of digital platforms in promoting entrepreneurship, expanding market access, strengthening economic documentation, and supporting the country’s broader digital transformation agenda.

The delegation shared its perspectives and proposals relating to the e-commerce sector, including matters concerning the regulatory environment, business facilitation, compliance mechanisms, and the continued development of digital commerce in the country. Participants also exchanged views on opportunities and challenges facing the sector and its contribution to economic growth, innovation, and formalisation.

During the meeting, the Minister of State emphasised that all proposals under consideration for the upcoming budget are being examined in light of the government’s broader fiscal and economic priorities. He reiterated the government’s commitment to maintaining a balanced policy framework that supports economic activity, encourages investment and innovation, and promotes sustainable growth.

The Minister appreciated the constructive input provided by the delegation and noted the importance of continued engagement with stakeholders in the policy formulation process. He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a consultative and inclusive approach to decision-making and welcomed contributions from industry representatives to support informed and evidence-based policymaking.

The meeting concluded with a shared understanding on the importance of continued collaboration between the government and the private sector to strengthen Pakistan’s digital economy, improve the business environment, and contribute to long-term economic development and stability.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026