Islamabad (Commerce Desk) — Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the preparation of a comprehensive strategy to provide financial support, enhance technical capabilities and facilitate access to global markets for small and medium-sized businesses and industries.
A meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif reviewed ongoing support measures under the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) for small and medium-sized industries and businesspeople. Shehbaz Sharif directed SMEDA to finalize a coordinated strategy for providing financial support to businesses and industries across the country.
He said promoting businesses in all parts of the country, along with providing equal facilities and technical assistance, should be prioritized among SMEDA’s institutional objectives. The prime minister also directed that SMEDA’s program to increase women’s participation in business activities be further expanded.
Shehbaz Sharif said digital platforms should be used effectively to connect local businesses with domestic and international commercial markets. He also directed that the maximum possible number of regions and sectors be included in SMEDA’s strategy and that special measures be taken to improve linkages between the production and trade of agricultural commodities.
The prime minister stressed giving equal attention to providing businesspeople with financial support, technical training and other facilities.