Jam Kamal vows ‘SME’ support as Pakistan pushes industrial growth

ISLAMABAD: Federal Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan on Monday assured small and medium enterprises (SMEs) of government support through regulatory reforms, easier business procedures and industrial development initiatives aimed at expanding Pakistan’s manufacturing sector and boosting economic growth.

The minister made the remarks during a meeting with a delegation from the Islamabad Chamber of Small Traders and Small Industries (ICSTSI), which discussed challenges faced by SMEs, including taxation issues, industrial infrastructure, business regulations and export promotion.

The delegation welcomed the State Bank of Pakistan’s updated definition of SMEs, saying the move would help more businesses access financial assistance and become part of the formal economy.

Jam Kamal said the government was working to remove unnecessary barriers for businesses by simplifying regulations, introducing digital systems and improving institutional processes. He stressed that outdated procedures and complicated rules should be replaced with modern approaches to encourage entrepreneurship and investment.

The minister said efforts were underway to make business registration easier through a unified system that would allow entrepreneurs to complete necessary requirements before starting operations. He added that bringing more businesses into the documented economy required support and facilitation instead of additional challenges.

The ICSTSI delegation informed the minister that many small businesses continued to operate outside the formal sector because of lengthy registration processes, frequent inspections and high compliance costs. They urged the government to focus on voluntary documentation and policies that encourage businesses to register.

The meeting also highlighted the need for dedicated industrial zones for SMEs in Islamabad with proper facilities, including electricity, gas, water supply and road connections. The delegation said many small manufacturers were currently working from residential areas due to the high cost of establishing formal industrial units.

Jam Kamal agreed that organised SME industrial zones could improve production quality, create jobs and help manufacturers meet environmental and safety standards.

The minister also discussed opportunities in Pakistan’s food industry, e-commerce sector and digital business platforms. He said these sectors had strong potential to create employment and contribute to economic activity.

The delegation called for the development of a modern slaughterhouse in Islamabad, saying the project could improve food safety, hygiene standards and halal meat exports. Jam Kamal said better management of livestock resources and animal by products could create additional economic opportunities.

The minister encouraged businesses to propose investment-ready projects through public-private partnerships. He said technology adoption, industrial expansion and export-focused policies would help strengthen Pakistan’s manufacturing sector.

Jam Kamal reaffirmed that the Ministry of Commerce would continue working with the business community to resolve challenges, support SMEs and build a more competitive economy.