ISLAMABAD – The Senate Standing Committee on Commerce, chaired by Senator Anusha Rahman, met to review critical issues related to trade, regulatory policies, and border facilitation.
During the meeting, the committee raised concerns over delays in the opening of the Badini Border. Although inaugurated in September 2020, the crossing remains inactive due to poor infrastructure and lack of support from the Afghan side. The Senate committee urged authorities to speed up the 40-km road project and improve coordination between the Ministry of Commerce, Interior, and the Balochistan government.
The committee also reviewed challenges in barter trade with Iran, particularly linked to SRO 642(1)/2023. It directed the Commerce Ministry to ensure a facilitative framework for traders while working with MoFA, FBR, and the Law Division to finalize necessary amendments. The Senate members stressed that bureaucratic delays must not hinder business-to-business transactions.
On foreign chambers of commerce, the committee noted slow processing, outdated policies, and long-standing inactivity of some chambers. It directed the ministry to align procedures with global standards, ease verification through embassies, and involve trade officers abroad to promote Pakistan’s interests. A revised framework was sought by early October.
The Senate body also highlighted the importance of activating export councils under TDAP. With 20 councils now operational, members urged meaningful engagement with stakeholders, especially from Balochistan. Weak infrastructure, high energy costs, and lack of cold storage were identified as barriers to export growth.
The committee further discussed the role of State-Owned Enterprises (SOEs), raising questions about privatization and oversight. It directed that the Privatization Division and Central Monitoring Unit be invited for detailed deliberations in the next meeting.
The Senate session concluded with emphasis on strengthening trade policies, ensuring better infrastructure, and fostering greater accountability in commerce-related institutions.
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