PM Shehbaz orders measures for bringing Pakistani exports up to global standards

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has ordered that concrete steps be taken to lift the quality of Pakistani goods to international norms. He gave the instructions at a review meeting in Islamabad on exports and economic growth, according to a statement from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO). Officials were also told to strengthen quality assurance and ensure that products fully meet global standards and rules.

The premier described higher exports as the foundation of national economic progress and called for sectors beyond the traditional ones to be prepared for overseas markets. He wants the largest possible number of industries involved, more value addition, and the adoption of modern technology, research and innovation. Exporters' administrative and business obstacles are to be removed, and the export process made simpler, faster and more transparent.

Meeting attendees were told that free trade agreements and preferential deals with friendly countries are being used to widen access to global markets. Work on horticultural products and surgical and medical instruments for overseas buyers is also underway, and the Export Development Fund restructuring has been completed. The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics reported a 9.54 per cent rise in merchandise exports in the opening month of FY27, even though the trade deficit widened, while exports in FY26 contracted by 5.97 per cent.