Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Wednesday ordered the strict execution of the National Tariff Policy, calling it a transformative initiative designed to strengthen Pakistan’s industrial base.
Presiding over a review meeting in Islamabad, the prime minister said the new tariff framework aims to support local manufacturing, balance exports and imports, and contribute to long-term economic stability. According to him, the updated policy will not only expand industrial output but also enhance the global competitiveness of Pakistani businesses.
Members of the Sub-Working Group, including leading industrialist Muhammad Ali Tabba, briefed the prime minister on challenges in customs and tax procedures and presented reform proposals. Shehbaz Sharif appreciated the recommendations and asked ministries and relevant institutions to prioritise industrial expansion and ensure better support for investors and manufacturers.
He stressed that sector-specific reforms must rely on accurate data and noted that the government is working to reduce production costs nationwide. He also directed officials to closely track customs duties collected on bilateral and transit trade routes.
The prime minister expressed concern that the Export Development Fund had not been effectively used for research or training for many years. He emphasised that Pakistan can achieve sustainable export-led growth only through higher investment and greater productivity.
The meeting was attended by several federal ministers, senior government officials, industry representatives, and members of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC).
