Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday approved the establishment of a Trade Facilitation Board, to be chaired by him, aimed at streamlining trade processes and addressing non-tariff barriers to cross-border commerce.

Chairing a meeting on trade facilitation in Islamabad, the prime minister said the board would take decisions to improve the entire trade supply chain and resolve issues affecting cross-border trade.

The meeting was informed that the board would prepare a roadmap to promote trade, formulate a Trade Facilitation Index and devise a mechanism to monitor progress.

PM Shehbaz directed the relevant authorities to work on an “emergency basis” to enhance the capacity of the country’s ports and ordered the formation of working groups to oversee the process.

He said these groups would focus on increasing port capacity, improving coordination among relevant departments, ensuring compliance with the regulatory framework, facilitating pre-arrival clearance and promoting the participation of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in international trade.

The prime minister also called for the simplification of transportation, clearance and other procedures for importers and exporters at ports, directing that “maximum possible facilitation” be provided to the business community.

The meeting was informed that ongoing reforms had reduced port charges, resulting in a significant increase in port utilisation.

It was further briefed that the facility for submitting Goods Declarations before the arrival of vessels was being expanded. The measure is expected to speed up clearance procedures.

Nepal

Prime Minister, Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday visited the Embassy of Nepal here and signed a condolence book opened in memory of the victims of the recent devastating flash floods and landslides that struck Nepal, in a gesture reflecting Pakistan’s solidarity with the Himalayan nation during its hour of grief.

Daanish University

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday directed authorities to finalise detailed plans for the establishment of Daanish University, along with a timeline for its construction, within two weeks.

Chairing a review meeting on the university, the prime minister said the institution should provide international-standard education and professional training to talented students belonging to economically disadvantaged and middle-income families.

He emphasised that Daanish University should have a system distinct from conventional universities and be established as a model of excellence.