Senate Commerce Committee Reviews Budget Utilization and Trade Initiatives

ISLAMABAD: The Senate Standing Committee on Commerce, chaired by Senator Anusha Rahman, convened on Monday the Parliament House to assess the Ministry of Commerce’s budget allocation for FY 2024-25 and the utilization status for the current fiscal year. The committee also reviewed the proposed Public Sector Development Program (PSDP).

Senator Anusha Rahman welcomed the addition of 10 new trade missions and emphasized the need for proper staffing to maximize their effectiveness.

The Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) reported a budget of Rs2.4 billion for the current fiscal year, with Rs1.73 billion released by December. Nearly 47% of TDAP’s budget—Rs565 million—has been allocated to salaries and benefits, while Rs246 million was fully utilized for promotional efforts.

TDAP officials highlighted the success of promotional activities, citing expos such as Food Expo, Texpo, and EHCS, which collectively generated $2.42 billion in business last year. Additionally, TDAP has participated in 44 exhibitions this year to boost Pakistan’s global trade presence.

Senator Rahman acknowledged the pharmaceutical sector’s request for a “Pharma Excel” initiative and urged TDAP to consider establishing a dedicated pharmaceutical division, covering APIs and nutraceuticals. TDAP’s secretary assured the committee that the hiring process for a pharmaceutical consultant is underway.

The session also identified key areas for improvement, including better facilitation of trade leads from Trade Information Offices (TIOs) to relevant associations. Senator Rehman stressed the need for consistent follow-ups to ensure effective action.

Senator Bilal Ahmed Khan questioned TDAP’s focus on the mineral sector, an underutilized resource. TDAP officials responded that while they had taken 28 sectors to exhibitions in Saudi Arabia, budget constraints made it difficult to establish 28 dedicated divisions.

The committee commended TDAP and the Ministry of Commerce for their ongoing efforts to enhance trade and meet the Prime Minister’s export targets. The planned appointment of a pharmaceutical consultant and improved sector-specific engagement were recognized as positive steps toward strengthening Pakistan’s export-driven industries.