ISLAMABAD – Pakistan has officially launched its first functioning Trade Dispute Resolution Commission (TDRC), marking a major milestone in trade governance. The initiative has been led under the vision of Commerce minister Jam Kamal Khan.
This is the first time the Trade Dispute Resolution Act 2022 has been fully implemented with a clear operational framework. The Commission now has appointed members, a defined roadmap, and dedicated support from the Trade Dispute Resolution Organization (TDRO).
While addressing the members, the Commerce minister stressed that the TDRC would transform how trade disputes are settled in Pakistan. He noted that the Commission will provide an efficient, neutral, and transparent system for both domestic and international stakeholders.
The Commission includes five members: Umar Dad Afridi, Javed Iqbal Khan, Muhammad Hamood Ur Rauf, Muhammad Rauf Khan, and Ms. Riffat Inam Butt. Immediate steps announced by the minister include securing office space, finalizing service and financial rules, launching an online complaint portal, and starting a nationwide awareness campaign.
Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Commerce, Rana Ihsaan Afzal, congratulated the new members. He praised the Commerce minister’s leadership and said the Commission’s operationalization reflects the government’s commitment to strengthening trade institutions.
Speaking on behalf of the Commission, members Riffat Inam Butt and Umar Dad Afridi pledged to deliver on the mandate. They highlighted that the TDRC would set higher standards of transparency and professionalism in dispute resolution.
Experts believe that the launch of the TDRC will improve ease of doing business, enhance investor confidence, and boost Pakistan’s image as a reliable trading partner. The initiative, under the guidance of the Commerce minister, is expected to attract more investment by ensuring fair and predictable dispute settlement.
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