Shehbaz Sharif approves overhaul of trade body TDAP to boost exports

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved the modernization of the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan on Friday, the state broadcaster Radio Pakistan reported.

The move aims to promote Pakistan's exports, improve access for local products in international markets and bring local industries, including small and medium enterprises, up to export standards.

The decision was taken at a high-level meeting that the prime minister chaired in Islamabad.

Sharif said access to international markets for locally made products is crucial for raising exports, and a modernized TDAP would help that process.

He said a complete ecosystem for agricultural exports, covering the entire value chain, would be developed.

He directed that well-trained staff be inducted into the authority through a transparent, merit-based process.

Sharif said reforms are only possible when career progression within institutions is linked to achieving targets and performance.

He also ordered that a reputable private audit firm be hired to conduct a performance and financial audit of the authority.

The prime minister said Pakistan has vast export potential and an advantageous geographical location, and said the government is facilitating industries and small and medium enterprises to expand exports.

The meeting was presented with a set of reforms to transform TDAP into a modern, internationally benchmarked trade promotion organization.

A twelve-month phased plan, covering approval, design, implementation and independent evaluation, was also presented for the proposed reforms.

Sharif directed that the reforms be completed and their implementation ensured by the middle of next year.

TDAP is the government body responsible for promoting Pakistan's exports abroad, and the overhaul comes as successive governments have sought to broaden the country's export base.