PM approves TDAP restructuring to boost Pakistan's exports, expand global market access

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved a revamp of the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), with instructions to have it fully operational in its new form by mid-2027. Profit by Pakistan Today reported that the plan is intended to improve exporters’ competitiveness, widen access to overseas markets and strengthen support for local businesses and SMEs.

The package would refocus TDAP on eight core responsibilities, reorganise its leadership and regional presence, and introduce digital services and artificial intelligence. Officials presented a 12-month rollout plan, while the prime minister also called for private-sector audits, performance measures and merit-based recruitment. He emphasised building support across the agricultural value chain and helping manufacturers meet international export standards.

The overhaul follows a review of TDAP’s current structure and operational difficulties, alongside comparisons with trade-promotion bodies abroad. The proposed model aims to combine exporter capability-building, domestic market development and overseas market access within a more integrated organisation.