ISLAMABAD (APP): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday emphasized the need to encourage the registration of cottage and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs) to help them access financial support, expand operations, and contribute to Pakistan’s overall industrial development.
Chairing a review meeting on SMEDA Restructuring and SME Development, the prime minister praised the ongoing initiatives led by the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) and the Ministry of Industries and Production to strengthen the SME ecosystem.
He highlighted that industrial growth in developed countries is closely linked to the success of cottage and small industries, which often supply raw materials to large manufacturers. He urged authorities to replicate similar models in Pakistan, adding that training programs for rural SMEs—particularly in agro-based industries—should be expanded to enhance productivity and value addition in the agriculture sector.
PM Shehbaz directed officials to set a clear implementation timeline for SMEDA’s roadmap and ensure swift execution to realize its objectives. He also expressed satisfaction over the ministry’s restructuring efforts and the steps taken for SME development.
During the briefing, officials informed the prime minister that SMEDA offices have been established in Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, which received a positive response from both the public and local chambers of commerce.
It was also shared that a new SMEDA Board, consisting of private sector experts, has been constituted, and the appointment of a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) will be finalized soon.
In a notable development, the meeting was briefed on the launch of an AI-powered Womenpreneurship Platform, designed to empower women entrepreneurs by offering information on business registration, tax compliance, and skills development.
Furthermore, a comprehensive roadmap for integrating SMEs into the formal economy was presented, aiming to enhance transparency, financial inclusion, and growth opportunities.
The meeting was attended by federal ministers Ahad Khan Cheema, Dr. Musadik Malik, Attaullah Tarar, Special Assistant Haroon Akhtar, and senior government officials.
PM Shehbaz reaffirmed his government’s commitment to supporting SMEs as a driving force for economic progress, job creation, and innovation in Pakistan.
