There must be a roadmap for reforms to remove bottlenecks

Pakistan has typically performed poorly in terms of its exports

Only 21% of Pakistani population uses the internet reports the World Bank

SMEs in Pakistan face trade barriers, lower export participation, hindering economic growth and development

Slowdown in exports, imports signals ominous challenges ahead for policymakers

It is essential govt encourages investment by facilitating ICT entrepreneurs

Unlike Bangladesh and Vietnam, Pakistan has failed to increase exports, leading to burgeoning deficit

Currently, the government seems to prefer shielding firms from import competition

Govt could avoid trade curbs, allow adjustment in rupee value to reduce deficit

Lower imports may have cut deficit, but they have adverse implications for industrial production