ISLAMABAD (Special Correspondent) – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on 6 November 2026 approved the comprehensive modernisation of the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) to significantly boost national exports and enhance access for local products to global markets. The initiative aims to align domestic industries, particularly Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), with international export standards through institutional reforms.

Key Points

• Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed the creation of an integrated ecosystem for agricultural product exports.
• The reform plan mandates the induction of highly trained human resources via transparent, merit-based recruitment.
• A reputable private firm will conduct performance and financial audits of the authority to ensure accountability.
• The authority will adopt digital platforms and Artificial Intelligence to improve operational efficiency and global outreach.
• Full operationalisation of the modernisation roadmap is expected by the middle of next year.

Strategic Reform of Trade Development Authority

Addressing a high-level meeting in Islamabad, the prime minister emphasised that a modernised Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) is essential for achieving broader industrial growth. He noted that by linking professional advancement to performance targets, the government intends to capitalise on the nation’s geographic advantages. The reform package includes streamlining the authority’s mandate to eight core functions and restructuring its board and management to better serve local manufacturers. The modernisation of TDAP to boost exports will also involve optimising the existing regional network.

Implementation and Governance

Officials presented a comparative analysis of effective international Trade Promotion Organisations (TPOs) during the session, highlighting the necessity of integrated services for exporter capacity building. In addition to these structural changes, the modernisation of TDAP to boost exports includes a phased 12-month implementation roadmap. The meeting was attended by key cabinet members, including Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, and other senior officials, who discussed the integration of measurable performance indicators to ensure the authority’s long-term success.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the primary goals of the TDAP modernisation plan?

The modernisation aims to boost national exports, enhance access for local products in global markets, and align domestic industries and SMEs with international standards.

How will the performance of the authority be monitored under the new reforms?

The government has directed the hiring of a reputable private audit firm for financial and performance evaluations and will implement measurable performance indicators alongside independent third-party reviews.