The federal government has announced plans to establish a large Export Processing Zone (EPZ) on 6,000 acres of land belonging to Pakistan Steel Mills (PSM).
The initiative aims to strengthen export-led growth and attract local and foreign investment by providing a dedicated industrial space for export-oriented businesses.
The proposal was shared by Secretary of Industries and Production, Saif Anjum, during a high-level consultative session on export performance held at the Federation House in Karachi.
The session brought together government officials, industry leaders, and exporters to discuss ways to improve Pakistan’s export capacity and global competitiveness.
Speaking at the event, President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), Atif Ikram Sheikh, highlighted the key challenges faced by exporters.
He pointed out high production costs, expensive energy, limited access to financing, and difficulties in meeting international compliance standards.
Despite these hurdles, he said there are strong growth opportunities in value-added manufacturing, information technology, services, and agro-based industries if proper support is provided.
The session also focused on the need for long-term reforms to make Pakistani exports more competitive. Federal Secretary Commerce, Jawad Paul, emphasized the importance of business-friendly policies to support exporters.
He stressed that affordable and regionally competitive energy prices, along with a simplified and facilitative tax system, are essential for sustainable export growth.
Participants agreed that the proposed EPZ could play a major role in boosting exports by offering better infrastructure, easier regulations, and a focused environment for exporters.
The government believes the project will help revive industrial activity, create jobs, and increase foreign exchange earnings in the coming years.