Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) has recently issued a directive to all organizations under its administrative control, requiring them to submit data on the export enhancement achieved through their Research and Development (R&D) activities. The initiative, stemming from a sectoral reforms meeting chaired by the Secretary of MoST, emphasizes the importance of R&D in driving export growth and aims to better understand the impact of technological advancements on national exports.
The directive requires organizations to submit detailed data, irrespective of whether their R&D interventions were direct or indirect, showcasing how their innovations have contributed to the enhancement of exports. This move is designed to provide a clearer picture of the relationship between scientific research, technological development, and the expansion of Pakistan’s export market. It also underlines the government’s focus on aligning R&D efforts with economic growth strategies, particularly in the context of boosting exports.
To manage this data collection and ensure the accuracy and consistency of the information, the Pakistan Scientific and Technological Information Centre (PASTIC), which operates under the Pakistan Science Foundation (PSF), has been designated as the central repository for all science and technology data. PASTIC’s role in consolidating this information is crucial as it supports the implementation of the National Science, Technology, and Innovation Policy 2022, which aims to strengthen the country’s innovation ecosystem. This policy outlines the strategic importance of integrating scientific and technological advancements into the broader economic framework.
PASTIC’s task is to collect the export data from various organizations and facilitate the submission process. The organizations are required to fill out a specific proforma detailing essential information, including the names of the products, unit prices, quantities exported, and export values in both USD and PKR. Additionally, they must specify the nature of their organization’s involvement in R&D activities. This comprehensive data collection will help create an overarching view of how R&D is contributing to export growth across different sectors.
The form accommodates data for up to 11 products per organization, which reflects the diverse range of products that are potentially influenced by R&D. Organizations are expected to submit their completed data by April 28, 2025, ensuring timely and accurate reporting. The data will then be compiled by PASTIC and forwarded to the Ministry of Science and Technology for further analysis and decision-making.
Dr. Syed Aftab Hussain Shah, the Additional Director of the Technology Information Services Section at PASTIC, has been assigned as the focal person for coordinating the data collection process. He will serve as the point of contact for organizations and can assist with any queries related to the submission process. His involvement will ensure a streamlined process for data submission, helping to address any challenges faced by organizations in providing the required information. Dr. Shah can be reached via email and phone for any further clarifications or guidance.
The official communication regarding this directive was sent out by Prof. Dr. Muhammad Akram Shaikh, Director General of PASTIC, to relevant stakeholders. Copies of the correspondence have been forwarded to key figures within MoST, including the Secretary of MoST, the Joint Scientific Adviser, and the Member Science of PSF. Additionally, the Pakistan Engineering Council (PEC) has been specifically addressed in the communication, highlighting the importance of engineering contributions to the country’s export goals. The inclusion of PEC in this initiative indicates the government’s recognition of the engineering sector’s critical role in fostering innovation and driving export growth.
The collection and analysis of this R&D-related export data will help the government assess the effectiveness of its science and technology policies, particularly in terms of how they support the country’s export ambitions. It will also provide valuable insights into the sectors where R&D is having the most significant impact, allowing for more targeted interventions and policies aimed at maximizing export potential. This move is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping Pakistan’s future economic strategy, especially as the government looks to harness the potential of its R&D capabilities to foster long-term sustainable growth. It also underscores the growing importance of scientific and technological advancements in contributing to the national economy and elevating Pakistan’s global competitiveness.
