CDPR Delegation Engages with TDAP to Enhance Pakistan's Trade

KARACHI: The importance of the Export Development Fund (EDF) in enhancing Pakistan's trade capabilities cannot be overstated. Recently, a delegation from the Consortium for Development Policy Research (CDPR) visited the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) headquarters in Karachi. The purpose of this visit was to discuss strategic improvements that could lead to a meaningful and sustainable impact on the utilization of the EDF.

The meeting was chaired by Basit Rauf, the Director General of the Textile and Leather Division. He was joined by other key officials, including Azhar Ali Dahar, Director General of the Engineering and Minerals Division, and Aasim Tiwana, Director General of the Trade Facilitation Division. Notably, Rafia Syed and Khalid Rasool participated via Zoom, representing the Punjab regions. The CDPR delegation included Dr. Mujtaba Piracha, a consultant and former permanent representative of Pakistan to the World Trade Organization (WTO), along with Faiza, the Program Manager.

During the discussions, the CDPR highlighted its collaboration with the Revenue Mobilisation, Investment, and Trade (REMIT) programme, which is funded by the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and Adam Smith International. This partnership aims to develop a comprehensive strategy that will enhance the EDF's scope, efficiency, management, utilization, and overall impact. The proposed strategy focuses on optimizing resource allocation, strengthening partnerships between the EDF, government bodies, and private sector stakeholders, and implementing advanced monitoring and evaluation mechanisms.

The ultimate goal of these efforts is to ensure that the benefits of the EDF are felt across the entire economy, leading to sustainable improvements in the socio-economic indicators of the country. The CDPR delegation's visit to Karachi is not limited to discussions with TDAP; it also includes upcoming meetings with the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), and other association representatives. TDAP is actively coordinating and facilitating these important engagements.

The collaboration between CDPR and TDAP represents a significant step towards enhancing Pakistan's export capabilities. By focusing on strategic improvements and fostering partnerships, there is a hopeful outlook for the future of the EDF and its role in boosting the country's economy. As these discussions progress, it is essential for all stakeholders to remain engaged and committed to the shared goal of sustainable economic growth.