The federal government is considering steps to make export financing more accessible to small businesses and help them sell more products in international markets.
Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani chaired a meeting at the Finance Division on Thursday to discuss problems faced by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and identify ways to improve their export performance.
The meeting also reviewed recently announced government support measures and gathered feedback from exporters.
Kayani said the government wanted to improve access to financing, reduce business costs and help smaller exporters enter new markets with competitive products.
Banks May Face Clearer Export Financing Requirements
The meeting focused on the Export Finance Scheme (EFS), with Kayani urging participating banks to appoint dedicated officers to handle applications, explain eligibility requirements and set clear processing timelines.
Participants also discussed ways to improve the Export Facilitation Scheme and assess the possibility of expanding export credit insurance and risk-sharing arrangements for smaller businesses.
Exporters raised concerns about regulatory requirements, taxes, compliance expenses and product certification. They also highlighted the growing need for green certifications to meet international market requirements.
Other challenges included shipping availability, high freight costs and limited access to modern machinery and technology needed to improve productivity.
Govt to Set Deadlines for Resolving Exporters’ Issues
Kayani directed the relevant stakeholders to consult chambers of commerce and exporters, record their concerns and establish a monitoring system with clear responsibilities and deadlines.
Government institutions will review issues involving financing, regulations and access to international markets. They will also examine ways to improve digital services, collateral requirements and export credit support.
The government said better coordination among institutions and easier access to finance would help small businesses strengthen their export capacity and compete internationally.
The meeting was attended by Secretary Commerce Jawad Paul, senior officials from the finance and commerce ministries, representatives of the Federal Board of Revenue, provincial departments and exporters from various SME sectors.
