ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved major reforms to the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP).
The decision aims to increase Pakistan’s exports, improve international market access, and strengthen support for local industries.
The reforms will particularly benefit small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) seeking to meet international export standards.
The approval came during a high-level meeting in Islamabad to review TDAP’s performance and proposed institutional changes.
The prime minister directed officials to complete the reform process by the middle of 2027.
PM Approves TDAP Restructuring to Improve Export Performance
The PM Approves a comprehensive restructuring plan to transform TDAP into a modern trade promotion organization.
Under the proposed reforms, the authority will focus on eight core responsibilities to improve its operational efficiency.
The restructuring will include changes to TDAP’s board, management structure, and regional offices.
Officials also proposed strengthening the authority’s ability to connect Pakistani exporters with international buyers.
The government aims to develop a more effective system for promoting locally manufactured products in global markets.
These changes are expected to help businesses improve their export capabilities and explore new trade opportunities.
TDAP to Introduce Artificial Intelligence and Digital Platforms
The proposed reforms include introducing artificial intelligence and digital technology into TDAP’s operations.
Officials presented plans to modernize the authority through digital platforms and improved performance monitoring systems.
The new framework will introduce measurable performance indicators to assess institutional progress.
Independent third-party evaluations will also help determine whether the reforms achieve their intended objectives.
A 12-month implementation plan was presented during the meeting.
The framework covers approval, planning, implementation, and independent assessment of the proposed changes.
Officials also reviewed challenges within TDAP’s existing structure and compared its performance with international trade promotion agencies.
Prime Minister Calls for Stronger Export Support
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the importance of improving international market access for Pakistani products.
He said Pakistan must strengthen its export system to support economic growth and international trade.
The prime minister also called for developing a complete export ecosystem for agricultural products.
This system would cover different stages of the agricultural value chain, from production to international marketing.
He directed officials to improve support for industries and smaller businesses seeking export opportunities.
Shehbaz highlighted Pakistan’s geographical advantages and significant potential to expand international trade.
TDAP to Introduce Merit-Based Recruitment and Independent Audits
The prime minister directed TDAP to recruit qualified professionals through a transparent and merit-based selection process.
He emphasized that employee promotions should depend on performance and measurable achievements.
The proposed changes aim to improve accountability and strengthen professional management within the authority.
Shehbaz also instructed officials to appoint a reputable private audit firm.
The firm will conduct financial and performance audits to evaluate TDAP’s operations.
These measures are intended to improve transparency and ensure better use of institutional resources.
PM Approves Reforms with Implementation Target Set for 2027
The PM Approves the reform plan with instructions to ensure its implementation by mid-2027.
The government expects the restructuring to strengthen TDAP’s role in supporting exporters and improving trade promotion services.
Federal Ministers Rana Tanveer Hussain, Jam Kamal Khan, Ahsan Iqbal, Muhammad Aurangzeb, and Attaullah Tarar attended the meeting.
Shaza Fatima Khawaja, Dr. Musadik Malik, and other senior officials were also present.
Prime Minister’s Adviser Haroon Akhtar and Minister of State Bilal Azhar Kayani also participated.
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The proposed reforms represent the government’s latest effort to improve Pakistan’s export competitiveness and support domestic businesses.
