PM Shehbaz approves reforms to modernise TDAP, boost Pakistan’s exports

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Friday approved a plan to modernise the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) to promote national exports, improve access for Pakistani products to international markets and help local industries, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), meet export standards.

The decision was taken at a high-level meeting chaired by the prime minister in Islamabad on Friday to review TDAP’s performance and proposed institutional reforms.

The meeting was briefed on the authority’s existing performance, organisational structure and operational challenges. A comparative review of international trade promotion organisations highlighted the need for integrated services to develop local markets, facilitate access to global markets, strengthen exporters’ capacity and promote exports.

The proposed reforms include limiting TDAP’s scope to eight core functions, restructuring its board and management, improving its regional network, and introducing digital platforms and artificial intelligence.

The plan also envisages measurable performance indicators and an independent third-party evaluation mechanism. A phased 12-month roadmap, covering approval, design, implementation and independent assessment, was presented at the meeting.

Shehbaz directed that the reforms be completed and implemented by the middle of next year.

Emphasising the importance of expanding access to international markets, the prime minister said a modernised TDAP would help facilitate the growth of exports. He also called for the development of a comprehensive ecosystem and value chain for agricultural exports.

The prime minister directed that qualified and well-trained professionals be inducted into TDAP through a transparent, merit-based process. He said institutional reforms required linking career progression with performance and the achievement of targets.

He also ordered the appointment of a reputable private audit firm to conduct the authority’s performance and financial audits.

Shehbaz said Pakistan had considerable export potential and a favourable geographical position, adding that the government was facilitating industries and SMEs to make better use of these advantages.

Federal ministers Rana Tanveer Hussain, Jam Kamal Khan, Ahad Khan Cheema, Muhammad Aurangzeb, Attaullah Tarar, Shaza Fatima Khawaja and Dr Musadik Malik attended the meeting, along with Prime Minister’s Adviser Haroon Akhtar, Minister of State Bilal Azhar Kiani and senior officials.