ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan has directed a thorough impact assessment and analysis of projects funded by the Export Development Fund (EDF) in recent years.

The purpose of these directions is meant to evaluate how these initiatives have bolstered export development and to identify areas for improvement.

The Ministry of Commerce has communicated these directives through a series of letters to various stakeholders involved in EDF-funded projects.

These letters, including one addressed to the Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP), underscore the need for detailed progress reports and updates on specific projects.

Among the highlighted projects are REAP’s projects, Child Labour Elimination, Program in Soccer Ball Industry of Sialkot, Placement of hi-Scan E-Ray Inspection System at Sialkot International Airport, Italy-Pakistan Technological Centre, Sports Goods Training and Facility Centre at Sialkot, Sialkot Tanneries Zone, Cutlery Institute of Pakistan, Wazirabad, Export Development Training Program in Ready Garments and Knitwear Industry, and others.

The letters demand comprehensive information on these projects to be submitted within three weeks, emphasising the urgency and importance of this assessment.

“Minister Khan's directive aims to ensure accountability and transparency in the utilisation of the EDF,” said an official statement issued by the Commerce Ministry.

According to the ministry, by assessing the impact of these projects, the ministry seeks to determine their effectiveness in promoting Pakistani exports and to guide future funding decisions.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2024