ECONOMIC Coordination Committee’s (ECC) decision to approve three dedicated export enhancement schemes is an encouraging step towards strengthening export sector, which remains the backbone of sustainable economic growth. At a time when exporters are grappling with rising production costs , these initiatives can provide the much-needed impetus to boost exports.
The first initiative, the enhanced Export Finance Scheme (E-EFS), offers exporters six-month working capital loans at a concessionary interest rate of 8.5 percent, with the government bearing the remaining financing cost. This will ease liquidity constraints and help exporters meet production and shipment schedules more efficiently. The second initiative, the Long-Term Export Growth Financing Facility (LTEGFF), provides long-term financing at highly concessional rates of 2 percent for the first two years and 5 percent for the following eight years, for establishing new export-oriented projects as well as modernizing and expanding existing ones. The third measure is a performance-based rebate scheme that rewards exporters achieving incremental export growth by offering rebates of one to two percent on additional exports. Together, these schemes represent a comprehensive package aimed at improving competitiveness, encouraging investment and rewarding higher export performance. These measures assume greater significance in view of our recent export performance. For years, successive governments have announced ambitious export targets, yet the results have remained disappointing. Instead of registering sustained growth, exports declined to approximately $30.13 billion in 2025-26 from about $32.11 billion in the previous financial year. This trend underscores the urgent need for policy interventions that address the structural challenges confronting exporters. If the government is serious about placing the economy on the path of sustainable growth, exports needs to be given the highest priority. Beyond financing support, the country must diversify its export base by promoting value-added manufacturing, information technology, engineering goods, pharmaceuticals and high-value agricultural products. Equally important is ensuring reliable and affordable energy. Competitive electricity and gas tariffs for productive sectors are essential to lower production costs and enable Pakistani products to compete effectively in international markets.
substantially to the national economy through remittances and serve as ambassadors of the country across the world. They are among Pakistan’s most valuable assets and deserve prompt, efficient and courteous consular services. Whether it is the renewal of passports, attestation of documents, visa-related matters or assistance during emergencies, every possible facilitation should be extended to them.
