Karachi: The Union of Small and Medium Enterprises (UNISAME) has expressed its appreciation for the collaborative efforts between the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) and the Board of Investment (BOI) in implementing over 170 regulatory reforms aimed at enhancing business operations across Pakistan. This initiative, part of the Prime Minister's Reforms Initiatives (PMRI) and the SME Policy 2021 reforms agenda, seeks to simplify and improve regulatory processes for key sectors.
According to Small and Medium Enterprise Development Authority, the reforms target several critical segments. These include the Agri-Input Market, which focuses on optimizing tools and strategies for sourcing agricultural inputs such as pesticides, fertilizers, seeds, and feed. The Agri-Food Processing sector is also a focal area, capitalizing on Pakistan's burgeoning food processing industry with opportunities in frozen foods and value addition in major food crops, as well as fruit and vegetable processing.
Additionally, the Value Addition Market aims to enhance primary products, creating new business opportunities. Effective storage solutions in the Agri-Storage Market are emphasized as crucial for maintaining the quality of agricultural products. The reforms also cover vital segments for Pakistan's economy and food security, including Livestock, Crops, and Fisheries. Furthermore, the Pharmaceutical sector is highlighted for its significant growth and innovation potential, while the Land Transport (Logistics) sector is recognized for its essential role in ensuring efficient business operations.
The BOI has completed an initial mapping of the required registrations, licenses, certificates, and other permits (RLCOs) for these sectors and is now seeking feedback from private sector stakeholders to ensure the reforms are tailored to meet their needs. Zulfikar Thaver, President of UNISAME, expressed confidence that this collaborative approach will foster a more business-friendly environment in Pakistan.
UNISAME has also offered contacts to Mukesh Kumar, SMEDA provincial chief Sindh, from their mentors council to provide expert advice. The council includes professionals from related sectors such as crops and commodities, agro-based and processing industries, pharmaceuticals, fisheries, and logistics, including storage and collateral management, to ensure the reforms are informed by expert insights.