TDAP eyes ASEAN, Central Asia as key markets

LAHORE: Director General of Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) Rafia Syed has said that ASEAN and Central Asian states are on the radar of Pakistan’s trade authorities as key markets to boost Pakistani exports.

Addressing members of the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) on Thursday, the DG said that TDAP is committed to policy advocacy, and highlighted the role of value-added products in boosting export. She also said that TDAP is utilising all available marketing tools, including delegations and webinars, to promote exports.

The TDAP DG invited LCCI members to participate in exhibitions organised by TDAP -- scheduled for February 2025 in Saudi Arabia and January 2025 in Ethiopia.

LCCI President Mian Abuzar Shad spoke about the critical issues affecting exports, citing rising business costs, particularly high energy prices, increased policy rates and inconsistencies in economic policies as major hindrances. He underlined the need to tap into the export potential in sectors like halal food, pharmaceuticals, information technology, engineering, surgical instruments and sports goods.