The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) today launched a nationwide capacity-building initiative aimed at equipping small businesses with the necessary skills to enter international markets, a strategic move designed to expand Pakistan’s export base and address the country’s trade deficit.
In line with the Prime Minister’s vision for SME development, the program consists of a series of training sessions being conducted in various cities under the leadership of the Ministry of Industries and Production. The objective is to foster a new generation of traders proficient in export and import operations.
Recent workshops on ‘Import and Export Procedure and Documentation’ were held at the Gujrat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GtCCI) and the Mirpur Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Both sessions focused on providing entrepreneurs with practical trade knowledge and a deeper understanding of international commerce.
Participants were guided through essential topics including customs procedures, Pakistan Single Window (PSW) registration, trade financing, and global payment methods. The training covered documentation fundamentals such as preparing an invoice, packing list, and Bill of Lading (B/L), alongside strategies for pricing and navigating international payment modes like Letters of Credit (LC).
Leaders from the business community have endorsed the program. Mr. Ahmed Hassan, President of GtCCI, and Mr. Umar Shahzad, President of MCCI, speaking at their respective chambers, applauded SMEDA’s efforts. They specifically emphasized the critical need to enhance the nation”s export volume to reduce the trade gap, highlighting the strong commercial potential within both urban and rural hubs.
In addition to trade procedures, SMEDA is also utilizing these forums to apprise entrepreneurs of its wider range of business development services. The crucial role of SMEs in strengthening the economy is being highlighted, with briefings on key support mechanisms such as the SMERP and the SME Certification and International Accreditation Grant Program.