TDAP aims to unlock market access

The Trade Development Authority of Pakistan plans to support exports through agricultural value addition, digital trade services and improved access to overseas markets, The Express Tribune reported. Secretary Sheryar Taj outlined the initiatives during a visit to the Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry, saying Pakistan should expand beyond shipping raw commodities.

TDAP’s Preferential Trade Access Database brings together 29 trade arrangements across 93 countries, allowing exporters to check tariff concessions using product HS codes; the authority will train KCCI members to use it. Digitised Certificates of Origin resulted in about 40,000 certificates during the first full year, serving approximately 12,000 exporters, saving Rs10 million in annual form costs and earning around Rs80 million. TDAP also plans its fourth FoodAg exhibition in Karachi from November 23-26, with around 360 participating companies.