Islamabad (Web Desk): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday called for the full and timely execution of the National Tariff Policy (NTP) 2025-30, directing relevant institutions to upgrade their systems and operations to create a more business-friendly environment that supports investment, trade, and industrial expansion.
According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office, the premier said this during a high-level meeting convened to review the country's economic performance and assess progress on the implementation of the National Tariff Policy.
PM Shehbaz underscored that boosting exports remains the top priority of government’s economic agenda.
During the meeting, Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the importance of a transparent and efficient National Tariff Commission, describing it as a critical institution for encouraging commercial activity and attracting investment.
He directed the commission to engage more actively with investors and manufacturers while pursuing structural reforms in line with internationally recognized standards.
PM Shehbaz also urged the adoption of advanced digital tools, including Information Technology and Artificial Intelligence, to improve institutional performance, increase transparency, and enhance public service delivery.
Officials briefed the meeting on the policy’s implementation strategy, explaining that tariff rates in several sectors would be gradually lowered under the new framework to stimulate export-oriented growth and strengthen Pakistan’s position in global markets.
The participants were informed that duties imposed on reefer containers and semi-trailers would be withdrawn as part of efforts to strengthen the logistics industry and make supply chains more efficient.
The meeting was further told that customs tariffs on specialized machinery and vehicles are being reduced to support development and investment in the construction sector.
In a move aimed at assisting the pharmaceutical industry, customs duties on essential raw materials—particularly inputs used in the manufacturing of cancer medicines—will be removed. The measure is expected to support domestic production and improve the availability of critical medicines.
Reaffirming the government's commitment to economic reform, the prime minister said that modernizing tariff institutions and implementing tariff-related changes would be instrumental in increasing exports, drawing investment, and maintaining sustainable economic growth over the long term.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, Climate Change Minister Musadik Malik, Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Khan Cheema, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik, Minister of State for Finance and Railways Bilal Azhar Kayani, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Haroon Akhtar, and other senior government officials.