TDAP Modernisation PM Shehbaz Approves Reforms to Boost Pakistan’s Exports

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved a comprehensive modernisation plan for the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), aiming to increase exports, expand international market access and bring local industries in line with global standards.

Chairing a high-level meeting on Friday, the prime minister said a restructured TDAP would help Pakistani manufacturers compete internationally and create stronger export opportunities for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

He stressed the need to build an effective institutional framework that supports businesses across the export value chain, from production and quality standards to marketing and access to overseas markets.

PM Calls for Stronger Agricultural Export System

Shehbaz directed officials to establish a complete ecosystem for agricultural exports, covering the entire value chain. He also called for recruiting highly trained professionals through a transparent and merit-based process.

The prime minister said professional development within TDAP should depend on performance and the achievement of measurable targets.

TDAP Modernisation PM Shehbaz Approves Reforms to Boost Pakistan’s Exports

He further ordered the appointment of a reputable private audit firm to conduct both performance and financial audits of the authority, aiming to strengthen accountability and institutional efficiency.

Highlighting Pakistan’s export potential, Shehbaz said the country had significant opportunities because of its geographic position and industrial capacity. He added that the government was working to help industries and SMEs make better use of these advantages.

TDAP to Adopt Digital Platforms and AI

During the meeting, officials presented an assessment of TDAP’s existing structure and operational challenges. They also shared a comparative review of successful international Trade Promotion Organisations (TPOs).

The review highlighted how modern trade institutions provide integrated support for domestic market development, international market access, exporter training and trade expansion.

A comprehensive reform package was presented to transform TDAP into a modern trade promotion organisation. Its proposals include reducing the authority’s mandate to eight core functions and restructuring its board and management.

The plan also envisages optimising TDAP’s regional offices, introducing digital platforms and artificial intelligence (AI), and establishing measurable performance indicators. Independent third-party evaluations would assess progress and institutional performance.

12-Month Roadmap Targets Completion by Mid-2027

Officials presented a phased 12-month implementation roadmap covering four stages: approval, design, execution and independent assessment.

The prime minister directed that the proposed reforms be completed and fully operational by the middle of next year.

The restructuring is intended to make TDAP more responsive to the needs of exporters and businesses, while improving its capacity to connect Pakistani products with international buyers.

Federal Ministers Attend High-Level Meeting

The meeting was attended by Federal Ministers Rana Tanveer Hussain, Jam Kamal Khan, Ahad Khan Cheema, Muhammad Aurangzeb, Attaullah Tarar, Shaza Fatima Khawaja and Dr Musadik Malik.

Coordinator to the Prime Minister Haroon Akhtar, Minister of State Bilal Azhar Kayani and other senior government officials also participated.

The proposed reforms place institutional restructuring, technology adoption and performance-based accountability at the centre of the government’s efforts to strengthen Pakistan’s export sector.