Islamabad — The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) of the Cabinet has approved a revised policy framework for the import of areca nut, commonly known as betel nut, in a move aimed at improving regulatory oversight and ensuring compliance with international standards.
The meeting, held on Wednesday at the Finance Division, was chaired by Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue Muhammad Aurangzeb. The ECC considered and approved a summary presented by the Ministry of Commerce regarding amendments to the Import Policy Order (IPO), 2022.
The revised import policy introduces stricter measures, including mandatory pre-shipment inspection and enhanced regulatory checks. These changes, approved by Shehbaz Sharif, are designed to ensure compliance with phytosanitary and food safety standards, reduce trade disputes, and align Pakistan’s import practices with global benchmarks.
Areca nut is widely consumed across Pakistan and holds significant commercial value in the domestic market. Officials believe the updated policy will help regulate quality, improve transparency, and facilitate smoother trade flows while safeguarding consumer health.
In addition to the import policy decision, the ECC approved multiple Technical Supplementary Grants (TSGs) for key sectors. A grant of Rs2.8 billion was approved for the Federal Directorate of Immunization (FDI) under the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination. The funding will support vaccination programs targeting over eight million children and ensure continued procurement of vaccines, syringes, and cold chain equipment in coordination with provincial authorities.
The committee also approved Rs306 million for the Airports Security Force (ASF) under the Defence Division. The funds will cover essential expenditures, including payments under the Prime Minister’s Assistance Package, leave encashment, and travel-related allowances.
Furthermore, the ECC sanctioned Rs2 billion for initiatives under the Federal Education and Professional Training Division. These funds will be utilized for the establishment of Daanish School in Kuri, Islamabad, and to support the Prime Minister’s Youth Skill Development Program through National Vocational and Technical Training Commission, aimed at enhancing youth employability.
The ECC emphasized strict monitoring of fund utilization, directing authorities to implement clear performance benchmarks and reporting mechanisms to ensure transparency and efficiency. The meeting was attended by senior federal ministers, secretaries, and officials from relevant ministries and regulatory bodies.