Pakistan is preparing to launch a digital marketplace designed to connect small and medium sized enterprises with international buyers, as part of broader efforts to strengthen exports and expand the global presence of local businesses. The platform is being developed by Ministry of Industries and Production and is intended to function as an online hub where Pakistani firms can present and sell their products directly to customers in international markets. Officials say the initiative reflects the government’s focus on promoting digital trade and improving opportunities for the country’s SME sector, which plays a key role in economic activity and employment.
The development was discussed during a high level meeting reviewing digital initiatives for the SME sector. Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries, Haroon Akhtar Khan, informed participants that the upcoming platform will allow businesses to showcase their products to global buyers through a dedicated online marketplace. The portal is expected to follow a model similar to international e commerce platforms such as Amazon, Alibaba and AliExpress, enabling Pakistani companies to access digital trade channels that connect producers directly with international customers. Officials believe the system will help domestic businesses strengthen their presence in the rapidly expanding global e commerce ecosystem.
The initiative forms part of the government’s wider strategy to digitise the SME sector and increase its contribution to national exports under the economic agenda of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The meeting was attended by senior officials including Industries Secretary Saif Anjum, Chief Executive Officer of Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority, Nadia J Seth, along with members of the authority’s board. Discussions focused on the use of digital platforms and technology driven tools to improve market access for local businesses and enable them to participate more actively in global trade networks.
According to officials, the marketplace will operate as a centralised online platform where international buyers will be able to explore a wide range of Pakistani products from various industries. These include high value goods from the gems and jewellery sector, automobiles and other products produced by SME industries. Authorities have also formed a working group tasked with developing a roadmap for launching the platform and ensuring that it meets international standards for accessibility, functionality and security. By providing digital access to global markets, the initiative aims to strengthen export potential, enhance visibility of Pakistani products abroad and support the continued growth of the SME sector in international commerce.
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