ISLAMABAD (Special Correspondent) – Minister of State for Finance and Railways Bilal Azhar Kayani stated on 25 October 2026 that the federal government is implementing concrete measures to drive economic development, ensure industrial stability, and foster the growth of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) through the revitalization of the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) board. Kayani noted that these structural reforms are central to empowering the private sector and positioning the country for sustainable industrial expansion.

Key Points

• Minister Bilal Azhar Kayani announced initiatives to revitalize the SMEDA board to better support SMEs through industrial financing and training.
• The government plans to transform Jhelum into a major regional commercial hub by leveraging its high literacy rate and infrastructure projects.
• The Lahore–Rawalpindi Motorway, transiting through Kharian and Jhelum, is expected to complete within three years, boosting regional trade connectivity.
• Minister Kayani committed to advocating for local Jhelum industrial interests before the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) and the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) if a viable feasibility paper is submitted.

Transforming Jhelum into a Commercial Hub

Addressing the oath-taking ceremony for the newly elected office-bearers of the Jhelum Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI), the Minister emphasized that the government’s primary mandate is to facilitate private sector growth. He identified Jhelum as a location with immense untapped potential and a peaceful environment conducive to attracting new manufacturing investments.

The event was attended by prominent business leaders, including Anjuman-e-Tajiran President Malik Muhammad Iqbal, newly elected JCCI President Azhar Dar, Senior Vice President Abdul Ghafoor Butt, Vice President Nadeem Khan, and former president Zahid Butt. During his address, Kayani specifically commended the contributions of women entrepreneurs to the national economy, reiterating the government’s commitment to safe and supportive work environments.

Infrastructure and Future Industrial Prospects

A significant component of the regional development plan involves infrastructure connectivity. Kayani highlighted that the upcoming Lahore–Rawalpindi Motorway project will significantly enhance market access for businesses in Kharian and Jhelum. This infrastructure upgrade is expected to open substantial new avenues for commercial activity upon its completion in the next two to three years.

Urging the JCCI to model their initiatives on the collaborative success seen in Sialkot, Kayani challenged the local chamber to produce a comprehensive, fact-based working paper for a new industrial estate. He pledged to personally oversee the project’s progress if the business community submits a viable feasibility study within one month, promising to secure support from key federal institutions to foster local manufacturing and youth employment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What support does SMEDA provide to small enterprises?

SMEDA provides comprehensive support including feasibility studies, industrial financing, and vocational training to assist small and medium businesses.

How will the Lahore–Rawalpindi Motorway impact Jhelum?

The motorway, which passes through Kharian and Jhelum, is expected to unlock substantial new avenues for industrial and commercial growth in the region once completed in the next two to three years.