PAKISTAN
ISLAMABAD — Pakistan will soon unveil its first-ever National Women Entrepreneurship Policy, a landmark initiative aimed at placing women at the centre of the country’s economic transformation. This was announced by Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries & Production, Haroon Akhtar Khan, while addressing Women’s Entrepreneurship Day celebrations jointly organised by SMEDA and FPCCI in Islamabad.
Bringing together representatives from over 21 Women Chambers of Commerce and Industry, the event highlighted the rising influence of women entrepreneurs in shaping inclusive, resilient and modern economic growth. SMEDA showcased its continued role in empowering women-led enterprises and strengthening grassroots entrepreneurship.
Haroon Akhtar Khan said that under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership, women have been placed “at the heart of economic development,” noting that Pakistani women are no longer waiting for opportunities but creating them. He emphasized that women are already driving key economic sectors and now need leadership roles, not just facilitation.
He noted that many small ventures in Pakistan have grown into full industries without formal financial support, and projected that economic facilitation measures could cross USD 40 billion this year. Expanded access to global markets—particularly if Pakistan secures trade openings in 25 additional countries—would further accelerate this growth, he added.
Highlighting new government initiatives, he said the Export Facilitation Policy, digital access, and improved connectivity are enabling Pakistani entrepreneurs—especially women—to reach global markets more effectively.
SMEDA CEO Nadia reaffirmed the government’s commitment to empowering women through skills development, financing, and SME support. The event concluded with FPCCI and SMEDA pledging continued collaboration to position Pakistani women at the forefront of national entrepreneurship and industrial advancement. – ER News Desk
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