Islamabad: Federal Minister for Industries and Production Rana Tanveer Hussain has launched an initiative aimed at improving coordination among provincial governments to foster the development of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) throughout Pakistan. This move follows guidance from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and involves various stakeholders in the SME sector.

According to Union of Small and Medium Enterprises, the minister convened with officials from the Punjab government’s Industries department at PCOM. The meeting included notable attendees such as Ehsan Bhutta, Secretary Industries Punjab, and Ms. Saira Umar, Managing Director of PSIC. Also present were Saif Anjum, Federal Secretary of Industries and Production, and Socrat Aman Rana, CEO of SMEDA. The gathering aimed to discuss and advance the national strategy for SME development.

During the session, Minister Hussain emphasized the critical role of SMEs in national economic growth, innovation, and social stability. He stated that the government prioritizes the advancement of SMEs and is committed to supporting their development to achieve balanced economic growth across all provinces. The minister also highlighted plans for regular inter-provincial coordination meetings to sustain a supportive environment for SMEs.

The minister expressed the government’s intent to implement immediate structural reforms to aid SMEs, including streamlining regulations and improving access to finance and technology, which are essential for the economic empowerment of the populace.