Govt weighs easing export scheme rules to cut costs, widen access

Pakistan’s Finance Ministry is reviewing possible revisions to the Export Facilitation Scheme, with the aim of making participation less costly and opening it to more export-oriented businesses. Profit by Pakistan Today reported that the proposals were discussed on Wednesday at the committee’s fifth meeting, chaired by Minister of State for Finance and Railways Bilal Azhar Kayani.

The options include simpler exporter classifications, adjusted approval periods and less complicated security procedures, alongside clearer access for firms with sound compliance records. Under the scheme, eligible businesses can bring in production equipment and other items for export manufacturing without paying customs duties and taxes upfront, provided they meet export conditions. Officials and representatives of APTMA, PTEA and the Sialkot Chamber also discussed the proposals, but no revisions or start date have been approved. Kayani said easier procedures must preserve revenue safeguards and be applied consistently.