By our correspondent
ISLAMABAD: Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal on Wednesday described rising exports as essential to Pakistan’s economic stability, self-reliance and sustainable development, urging the private sector to take a leading role in expanding the country’s presence in international markets.
He made the remarks while addressing a policy dialogue hosted by the Planning Commission in Islamabad on measures to strengthen Pakistan’s automotive exports.
The dialogue focused on ways to increase the country’s share in global automotive markets and contribute to the $63 billion export target set under the government’s URAAN Pakistan initiative.
Ahsan said Pakistan needed a stronger export-oriented approach to reduce economic vulnerabilities and build a more sustainable growth model. He stressed that higher exports were important for strengthening the country’s external position and creating a more self-reliant economy.
The minister urged the private sector to take the lead in driving the national export agenda. He said businesses needed to play a more proactive role in identifying international market opportunities and developing products that could compete effectively in global markets.
He called for stronger cooperation between the government and private sector to address the structural challenges facing exporters. Both sides, he said, needed to work together to identify new markets, remove bottlenecks and establish clear priorities for export-led growth.
The policy dialogue also examined challenges facing Pakistan’s automotive industry and possible measures to improve its competitiveness. Greater integration with international supply chains and stronger export capacity were highlighted as important areas for future growth.
Ahsan said the government was ready to facilitate the private sector in overcoming barriers that restricted export expansion. He stressed that policies should focus on creating an environment in which businesses could invest, innovate and compete internationally.
