PM Shehbaz stresses taking decisions in national interest, promotes non-traditional exports

Assures timely payment of sales tax refunds to industrialists and traders

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif stressed the need to make decisions that serve the national interest and ensure the provision of all necessary facilities to promote non-traditional exports, emphasising the need to increase the ratio of exports to GDP.

He made these remarks during a meeting with a delegation of prominent exporters at the Prime Minister's House in Islamabad on Friday.

PM Shehbaz stated that exports are the backbone of the national economy, adding that the country will only develop when the export sector advances towards rapid and sustainable growth.

He assured timely payment of sales tax refunds to industrialists and traders, stressing that no negligence would be tolerated, and instructed relevant authorities to ensure that all possible facilities were provided to them.

The prime minister further directed federal ministers to consult with the delegation to resolve all issues faced by exporters promptly. He acknowledged the significant role played by exporters in the country's development and assured that all facilities necessary to promote non-traditional exports are being provided.

The delegation expressed appreciation for the reduction in electricity tariffs for industries. They expressed confidence in the government's economic policies and pledged their cooperation. The delegation also voiced their support for the government's efforts to penalise those damaging the national treasury and tax evaders.

The meeting was attended by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Petroleum Minister Musadik Malik, Energy Minister Awais Ahmed Khan Leghari, Minister of State for Finance and Revenue Ali Pervez Malik, IT Minister Shaza Fatima, and other senior government officials.