SMEDA to Train SME Clusters in Value Addition and Export Branding

Islamabad/Brussels, (Unib Rashid) __ A high-level meeting was held under the chairmanship of the Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production, Haroon Akhtar Khan, to review initiatives aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) sector.

During the meeting, SMEDA Board Member Mashhood Ali Khan briefed participants on new initiatives being undertaken to support SMEs and enhance their contribution to the national economy.

Haroon Akhtar Khan informed the meeting that an online platform registering more than 200 SME clusters has been established to bring diverse business clusters onto a single digital platform. The platform includes a wide range of clusters—from honey producers to olive oil processors—making them accessible through one website.

He stated that the registration of clusters in line with the vision of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will enable SMEs to gain better access to both national and international markets.

The Special Assistant further highlighted that SMEDA will provide training to these clusters in value addition, branding, and export development to help them compete in global markets.

Haroon Akhtar Khan emphasized that the SME sector is the backbone of Pakistan’s economy, playing a crucial role in employment generation and industrial growth.

He added that the digitalization of SME clusters will significantly expand business opportunities, improve connectivity among businesses, and enhance market visibility.

The government, he reiterated, remains fully committed to linking small and medium-sized enterprises with global markets and promoting exports through a cluster-based development approach, which will help strengthen local industries and boost Pakistan’s export potential.