PM directs SMEDA to formulate comprehensive strategy

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has instructed the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) to draw up a broad funding strategy for small and medium enterprises and businesspeople across Pakistan. Business Recorder reported that the directive followed a review meeting held in Islamabad.

The premier chaired a session in Islamabad to examine SMEDA's ongoing schemes. He stressed that business promotion and equal facilities should be central goals, backed by uniform technical help in every region. He also wants women to take a larger part in small firms, and digital platforms to be used to open national and overseas trade markets to local entrepreneurs.

The briefing showed that SMEDA is preparing an integrated strategy with partner institutions. The focus will be on strengthening small enterprises, improving the skills of professionals and technicians, and boosting shipments abroad of manufactured goods tied to small firms. Shehbaz also asked for a separate package covering farm produce, linking its output and trade chain.