Govt seeks wider markets to boost exports

The government is working to align intellectual property laws with contemporary requirements to promote innovation in exports, while steps are being taken to expand horticultural exports, boost shipments of surgical and medical equipment and secure free trade agreements with several friendly countries. The measures were discussed at a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to review measures for increasing the country's exports and accelerating economic growth. The meeting was briefed on progress under the approved strategic roadmap for promoting exports. Prime Minister Shehbaz directed that increasing exports should be made the foundation of the country's economic growth and that more sectors, alongside traditional ones, should be prepared for exports to the international markets. He directed that the maximum possible number of sectors and industries should be brought into export activities to diversify trade, while the quality of Pakistani products should be brought in line with international standards and the quality assurance system made more effective. He called for special focus on value-addition in exports and directed the promotion of modern technology, research and innovation in export-oriented industries. He said digitalisation and modern technology should be fully utilised to bring the national economy in line with contemporary requirements.