The National Assembly Standing Committee on Commerce has resolved to seek detailed briefings from the Ministries of Defence, Interior, and Foreign Affairs, alongside the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), to examine the stagnation and decline of Pakistan’s exports to regional countries. The decision was made during a committee meeting chaired by Jawed Hanif Khan, which reviewed a calling attention notice addressing the persistent lack of export growth despite improved diplomatic relations with neighbouring nations.
Members of the committee noted that trade volumes with regional partners remain minimal, highlighting concerns over the government’s ambitious $60 billion export target, while actual exports have fluctuated between $25–30 billion for nearly two decades. The committee chairman emphasized that regional trade appears influenced by security considerations, prompting the decision to invite officials from relevant ministries for comprehensive briefings.
The committee also endorsed the Ministry of Commerce’s plan to allocate Rs15 billion from the Export Development Fund (EDF) to support rice exporters. Officials explained that rice exports have declined by approximately 50%, contributing to a $1.4 billion overall export shortfall, with nearly 60% of this decline attributed to the rice sector. The support package aims to facilitate around $1 billion in rice exports amid global oversupply and intensified competition following India’s return to the export market. Approved by the EDF Board on January 19, 2026, the scheme applies to shipments from January 23, 2026, to June 30, 2026, and will be digitally managed through the Pakistan Single Window in coordination with SBP and customs authorities.
Additionally, the committee reviewed the Expo Centre Quetta project, approved at a cost exceeding Rs4.629 billion, raising concerns about its location and funding delays. Members linked the approval of a Rs3 billion SME export acceleration initiative to clearance from the Ministry of Planning. Planning officials stated that the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) allocation for 2025–26 stands at Rs1,000 billion, with fund releases based on priority projects.
During discussions, structural challenges affecting exports were highlighted, including high production costs, energy constraints, taxation policies, provincial cess, and limitations on foreign exchange. The committee stressed the need for inter-ministerial coordination and informed policy decisions to address regional trade and security-related barriers.
The panel also reviewed the performance of National Insurance Company Limited (NICL), noting real estate assets valued at Rs25 billion, including properties in Dubai worth Rs4.6 billion, and examined investment and governance issues. The gems and jewellery sector was similarly discussed, with estimated reserves of $450 billion, alongside concerns over illegal gold exports and the absence of hallmarking. Proposed regulatory reforms and export promotion measures were referred to the Commerce Ministry for evaluation.
Finally, the committee directed senior SBP officials to present actionable solutions in the next meeting regarding remittance and regulatory challenges affecting gold and gemstone exports. Members emphasized the need for coordinated efforts to boost exports, address structural challenges, and strengthen Pakistan’s trade and economic growth trajectory.
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