LAHORE: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday welcomed the launch of export insurance coverage by the Export Development Fund and the Export-Import Bank of Pakistan, saying the facility would help SMEs expand the country’s exports.

Chairing a meeting on the EDF, he said the Rs3 billion Risk Pool would expand access to export credit insurance, especially for SMEs, and help the business community increase export volumes.

He described the initiative as a highly welcome step to promote small and medium-sized businesses and strengthen the national economy.

Mr Sharif said that following restructuring and reforms, the leadership of the EDF had been entrusted to private-sector professionals. He added that all funds available with the EDF were being utilised to facilitate the business community.

The premier said these measures reflect the government’s commitment to strengthening the national economy and boosting exports, adding that such initiatives would help Pakistan emerge as a global investment hub.

He said the government’s measures were aimed at fulfilling its commitment to promoting an export-led economy.

During the meeting, the prime minister was briefed on the EDF’s restructuring and reforms. He was further told that the entire Rs24bn funds had been allocated for investment to facilitate the business community.

The meeting was further informed that no additional expenditure would be made on infrastructure, while the EDF was undertaking initiatives related to research, skills development and enhancing competitiveness to support economic growth and facilitate businesses.

The briefing also noted that measures were being taken to extend Pakistan’s GSP+ preferential trade arrangement to maintain the country’s access to the European market.

Published in Dawn, September 6th, 2026