New export policy revisions aim to cut costs and boost Pakistan’s exports

The government is planning changes to the Export Facilitation Scheme (EFS) to make it easier for exporters to do business, reduce their costs

Islamabad: The government is planning changes to the Export Facilitation Scheme (EFS) to make it easier for exporters to do business, reduce their costs and encourage investment, but has made it clear that no special exemptions will be allowed.

The decision came during the fifth meeting of the Prime Minister’s Committee to Review the Export Facilitation Scheme, held at the Ministry of Finance under the chairmanship of Minister of State for Finance and Railways Bilal Azhar Kayani.

Senior officials from the Ministry of Commerce and the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) attended the meeting, along with representatives of major exporters’ organisations, including the All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA), Pakistan Textile Exporters Association (PTEA), Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and leading exporters.

The committee reviewed proposed changes aimed at making the scheme simpler, more transparent and better suited to the needs of exporters. The changes are also intended to strengthen checks and ensure that businesses receiving benefits under the scheme are genuinely involved in exports.

Mr Kayani stressed that eligibility conditions and official procedures must be applied equally to everyone, with no exemptions for any individual or business.

The proposed changes include simplifying the categories of exporters, reviewing the time periods for approvals and making it easier for both new and existing exporters to use the scheme.

The committee also discussed ways to support exporters who follow the rules, introduce a clear and transparent system and simplify security requirements. However, it stressed that proper checks must remain in place to prevent misuse of the scheme.

The government wants to reduce the extra costs exporters face when meeting official requirements. Lower costs could help businesses invest in new machinery, improve production and add more value to goods made in Pakistan before they are exported.

The proposed revisions also aim to connect the benefits of the scheme with actual export performance, so that concessions are given to businesses that meet the required conditions.

Mr Kayani said procedures should be made easier without weakening safeguards for government revenue. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to continued talks with exporters and trade organisations before moving forward.

The meeting focused on proposed amendments to the scheme. The information provided does not confirm that the changes have been formally approved or announce a date for their implementation.