Karachi, December 7, 2023 – The Union of Small and Medium Enterprises (UNISAME) has issued a compelling call for the immediate appointment of a Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for the Small and Medium Development Authority (SMEDA).
In a statement released on Thursday, UNISAME expressed deep concern over the current leadership vacuum in SMEDA, emphasizing the need for swift action to address the challenges facing the Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) sector.
Zulfikar Thaver, President of UNISAME, voiced disappointment at the prolonged absence of a CEO, particularly during a time when the SME sector grapples with significant issues, and the overall economy strives for stability. Thaver stressed that crucial matters such as imports, exports, the promotion of locally-made products, and the high cost of production demand superior direction and leadership.
UNISAME’s Council members have urged the Ministry of Production and Industries (MoP&I) to promptly appoint a competent and dynamic individual from the private sector to lead SMEDA. The aim is to transform SMEDA into a vibrant institution dedicated to the promotion and development of the majority sector.
Council members highlighted the necessity of meetings with the State Bank of Pakistan and the Pakistan Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (PCSIR) to expedite matters related to facilitating importers and exporters. Discussions with PCSIR are crucial for advancing initiatives such as manufacturing solar panels in Pakistan, agricultural drones, and the establishment of dehydration plants for fruits, vegetables, and other items.
UNISAME stressed the urgency of appointing a CEO for SMEDA who can expedite the implementation of the SME Policy. The SME Policy envisions a fast-track promotion and development of the SME sector, promising initiatives such as an Export Promotion Bureau for SME wares, export credit guarantee insurance, an Exim Bank, SME Ombudsman, and an SME Institute of Technology.
However, UNISAME noted that the existing organization is insufficiently equipped and lacks the necessary resources to fulfill the promises outlined in the SME Policy. The current state of SMEDA has resulted in a limping, ill-equipped, and skeletal organization, hindering the realization of crucial initiatives for the SME sector.
Given these challenges, UNISAME’s council has called upon the caretaker government to urgently address the situation and take immediate action in the best interests of the underprivileged sector and the overall economy. The appointment of a competent and proactive CEO for SMEDA is viewed as a critical step toward realizing the potential of the SME sector and fostering economic growth and resilience. As the government navigates this issue, stakeholders and the business community will be keenly observing the developments in the days ahead.
