Islamabad, 11 Apr, 2025: Haroon Akhtar Khan, PM’s Special Assistant, attended the Gujranwala Expo 2025 SME Trade Fair as the Guest of Honor, where he lauded the role of Gujranwala’s business community in advancing Pakistan’s industrial and export capabilities.
During his visit to the Gujranwala Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) Expo 2025, Mr. Khan praised the city’s dynamic entrepreneurial spirit, calling Gujranwala the fastest-growing hub for SMEs in Pakistan.
He emphasized that sectors such as ceramics, sanitary ware, plastics, home appliances, and food & beverages are not only flourishing locally but also gaining recognition on the international stage.
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Mr. Haroon Akhtar Khan highlighted the critical role of SMEs in Pakistan’s economic growth and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting business-friendly policies.
“The vision of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is centered on creating a facilitative environment for businesses,” he stated. “Ease of doing business and establishment of facilitation centers remain a top priority.”
Reflecting on his experience, Mr. Khan expressed admiration for the high-quality products produced in Gujranwala.
“I have traveled the world and closely compared international standards and what I have seen here today in tiles, ceramics, sanitary fittings, and appliances is truly remarkable,” he said.
He further commented on recent improvements, noting, “Due to the current government’s economic team, interest rates and power tariffs have started to decline, despite earlier challenges from previous policies. This is making it easier for businesses to scale and compete.”
Mr. Khan expressed strong confidence in Pakistan’s future as an export-driven industrial power, declaring that reducing production costs, aligning tax structures with regional competitors, and supporting exporters are essential steps forward.
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“Pakistan is once again on the path to becoming an economic powerhouse, just as it was poised to be in the 1990s.”
He also commended the GCCI for organizing an exceptional event and encouraged other industrial cities in Pakistan to host similar expos to boost visibility, attract investment, and foster global partnerships.
“This kind of proactive initiative will shape the future of Pakistan’s exports and industrial growth.”
