The federal government on Saturday reviewed export promotion schemes and policy options for the upcoming federal budget 2026-27 as part of efforts to strengthen Pakistan’s exports and improve global competitiveness.
A high-level meeting was held in Islamabad under the chairmanship of Ahad Cheema, Federal Minister for Economic Affairs, to discuss export-focused incentives and policy reforms aimed at supporting key sectors of the economy.
Senior officials attend budget review meeting
The meeting was attended by Bilal Azhar Kayani, Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan Jameel Ahmad, Secretary Finance Imdadullah Bosal, Chairman of the Federal Board of Revenue Rashid Mahmood Langrial and Secretary Commerce Jawad Paul.
International economic experts Ijaz Nabi and Stefan Dercon also participated and shared recommendations on export competitiveness and economic reforms.
Focus on export growth and SME participation
Officials briefed participants on various export policy proposals currently under consideration for the budget 2026-27.
Detailed discussions focused on priority export sectors and measures aimed at boosting export growth, enhancing competitiveness and increasing the participation of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in international trade.
The meeting also explored strategies to expand Pakistan’s footprint in global markets through targeted incentives and trade facilitation measures.
Government reviews performance-based incentives
Participants reviewed multiple proposals relating to fiscal support, export rebates and sector-specific incentives.
The discussions highlighted that improving exports requires not only tax reductions but also better infrastructure, easier access to factors of production, improved logistics and an enhanced ease of doing business environment.
Ahad Cheema emphasized the importance of introducing a sustainable and performance-based export incentive system focused on measurable outcomes.
He said the framework should encourage higher export volumes, greater value addition, diversification of export products and stronger integration of SMEs into global value chains.
Export rebate and reward mechanisms discussed
The meeting also reviewed different incentive options, including:
• Performance-based export rebates
• Incentives linked to incremental export growth
• Reward mechanisms tied to export targets
Participants agreed that future incentive schemes should be transparent, efficient and aligned with long-term economic goals.
Officials said the proposed measures would be further refined through consultations with relevant stakeholders before finalization of the federal budget 2026-27.
Government reiterates support for exporters
The government reaffirmed its commitment to promoting export-led economic growth through practical and forward-looking policies.
Authorities believe that stronger exports will play a key role in improving Pakistan’s external sector position, supporting industrial growth and creating employment opportunities in the coming years.