Karachi: Export and industry are among the priorities of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Commenting on the Prime Minister’s address at the Pakistan Stock Exchange on 1st October 2026, the Prime Minister referred to the non-performance of certain specific export-oriented industries. However, the media coverage has given an impression that Pakistan’s entire export industry has failed to increase exports, which does not reflect the overall performance of the country’s export sector. Prime Minister has always accorded priority to the export-led industrial growth and chairs regular meetings with stakeholder exporting industries. This was stated by Muhammad Jawed Bilwani, Chief Coordinator, All Pakistan Exporters Associations Forum in a statement to press and electronic media.
Jawed Bilwani articulated that Pakistan’s overall export performance has shown significant growth over the years, with national exports increasing from US$20.787 billion in 2015-16 to US$30.139 billion in 2025-26, registering growth of 45% and making a substantial contribution to the country’s foreign exchange earnings. He said that the Prime Minister’s emphasis on increasing exports, improving quality and strengthening industrial competitiveness is an important policy priority. Exporters also believe that Pakistan needs more exports, greater investment, increased value addition and improved competitiveness in international markets.
He appreciated the Prime Minister’s continued engagement with exporters and appreciated that regular consultative meetings between the Prime Minister and exporters are important for addressing industry issues and strengthening Pakistan’s export competitiveness. Continued consultation can help bridge the gap between practical industry requirements and government policy. He emphasized that exporters seek partnership and practical cooperation with the Government. The Government can facilitate a competitive business environment through appropriate policies and reforms, on directives of Prime Minister, while the industry will continue to contribute through increased productivity, quality, technology, value addition and access to international markets. FBR teams regular visits to Karachi and establishing of PRAL Office at Karachi are important initiatives under Prime Minister’s direction to facilitate export and industry.
Jawed Bilwani said that key issues including Cost of Doing Business, energy costs, taxation, refunds, export finance, logistics, customs and Ease of Doing Business require continued attention of Prime Minster so that Pakistani products can compete effectively in international markets. Increasing Pakistan’s exports is a shared national responsibility of the Government and the private sector. The All-Pakistan Exporters Associations Forum recognizes the importance of the Government’s focus on exports and industrial development and will continue to provide its recommendations and cooperation for further increasing Pakistan’s exports and strengthening the country’s foreign exchange earnings.
“Exporters are ready to work with the Government to increase exports, earn valuable foreign exchange, create employment and strengthen Pakistan’s economy. The All-Pakistan Exporters Associations Forum will continue to provide practical recommendations and support export-friendly policies,” Bilwani said.
