Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has approved the creation of a Trade Facilitation Board, which he will personally chair, to address obstacles to cross-border trade and boost economic growth. The board will focus on resolving non-tariff issues, improving supply chains, and developing a strategic roadmap for trade promotion, including strategies related to the Trade Facilitation Index. The Prime Minister directed urgent action to increase port capacity through the formation of dedicated working groups. These groups will concentrate on coordination, regulatory compliance, pre-arrival clearance, and expanding the participation of small and medium-sized businesses in global trade. Measures to streamline import and export processes and reduce clearance times at ports were also prioritized, building on recent improvements achieved through fee reductions. The initiative reflects a commitment to fostering a more efficient and internationally competitive trade environment in Pakistan.