LAHORE - The government is endeavoring to formulate a medium-term trade policy framework for enhancing exports on a sustainable basis by incorporating suggestions of the business community in strategic trade policy framework (STPF) 2018-23.

This was stated by Trade Development Authority of Pakistan TDAP secretary Inam Ullah Dharejo while addressing the business community during the consultative session held in perspective of STPF here at a local hotel.  "The concept of holding exercise on the initiative of Younas Dagha, Secretary Commerce on consultative sessions across the country was to ascertain the opinion of trade bodies for bringing radical changes in the new trade policy', he said and hoped that the substantial measures would help in consolidating the growth of the export sector of the country.

Dilating on the number of measures taken by the government to enhance and diversify exports, he apprised the business community about introduction of Prime Minister Export Enhancement Package of Rs 180 billion to arrest declining exports with provision of an additional 2% duty drawback for the non-traditional markets, successful organization of 10th edition of Expo Pakistan where more than 800 foreign buyers/importers from 70 countries visited and Secretary Commerce Younas Dagha initiative "Emerging Pakistan" to showcase Pakistan's futuristic image and organizing "Look Africa" conference to encourage exports to non-traditional markets. He further informed the audience that on the sidelines, FTA negotiations with Turkey and Thailand, review of Pakistan-China FTA, Pakistan-Indonesia FTA and GSP Plus scheme will enhance market access for our products.

Earlier, Director General Trade Policy, Ministry of Commerce Nauman Aslam made the introductory presentation. Mian Riaz Ahmed, Director General TDAP, Lahore along with other senior officers coordinated the activity.

On the occasion, the president Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry and vice president FPCCI also addressed the house. Representatives of LCCI, Women Chamber of Lahore and Multan Division, Pakistan China Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry, FPCCI Lahore, PAAPAM, Pakistan Tanners Association, APTMA, Pakistan Afghanistan Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Rice Exporter Association, Pakistan Ethanol Manufacturers Association and Pakistan Poultry Association respectively attended the session.

Meanwhile, Ch. Arfan Yousaf, Regional Chairman FPCCI, during a Consultative Session, said that the cost of doing business and Reimbursement of tax refunds and payment of funds under PM package should be top priority of the Government for the promotion of Exports.

Ch. Arfan Yousaf highlighted his concern about GSP Plus status and said Pakistan has succeeded in getting 'GSP Plus' status but its imported to cultivate its benefits. He further added efforts should be made for identifying potential markets and buyers.

While appreciating prime minister's initiative to seek stakeholders' suggestions on broad-based consultative process to formulate Strategic Trade Policy Framework (STPF) 2018-23, Ch Arfan Yousaf informed in order to enhance the exports and curtailing imports, the FPCCI has documented proposals for Strategic Trade Policy Framework 2018-2023 and submitted to the ministry.