The federal government has reaffirmed its commitment to creating a more business friendly environment by simplifying regulations, supporting small and medium enterprises, and expanding Pakistan’s manufacturing sector through institutional reforms and digital transformation. Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan made the remarks during a meeting with a delegation from the Islamabad Chamber of Small Traders and Small Industries, with discussions focusing on taxation reforms, industrial infrastructure, exports, and measures to improve the ease of doing business.
The commerce minister said the government is working to remove unnecessary regulatory barriers, modernize business procedures, and simplify registration processes so entrepreneurs can complete required formalities more efficiently before launching commercial activities. He also welcomed the State Bank of Pakistan’s revised definition of small and medium enterprises, saying it would help more businesses gain access to financing opportunities and government incentives.
Business representatives informed the minister that many small enterprises continue to operate outside the formal economy due to complicated registration procedures, frequent audits, and high compliance costs. In response, the commerce minister said the government’s goal is to expand the tax base by encouraging voluntary documentation rather than placing additional pressure on existing taxpayers. During the meeting, the business delegation proposed the establishment of dedicated industrial zones for small and medium enterprises in Islamabad, a modern slaughterhouse to support the halal meat sector, and the development of a 100 acre industrial project through a public private partnership.
The commerce minister said organized industrial estates could improve productivity, enhance product quality, strengthen environmental compliance, and create new employment opportunities, adding that better utilization of livestock byproducts could also contribute to economic growth. He urged the business community to present commercially viable investment proposals, stating that public private partnerships, industrial diversification, and technological advancement would be essential for strengthening Pakistan’s manufacturing sector, increasing exports, and creating sustainable jobs.
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