BEIJING, Apr 10: A Pakistani businessman with over 15 years of international experience has put forward a comprehensive set of policy recommendations aimed at strengthening the country’s economic landscape, improving trade competitiveness, and unlocking new avenues for industrial growth.
Speaking on the current economic challenges, Ihsan Ullah emphasized the need for the government to actively engage Pakistanis operating businesses abroad, particularly in key markets such as China. He noted that these individuals possess valuable firsthand experience in global trade systems, supply chains, and industrial practices, which could help shape more effective and practical policies if incorporated through structured consultations.
Highlighting shifting global economic dynamics, Ihsan Ullah urged Pakistan to adopt a pragmatic industrial strategy and suggested that, in the short to medium term, the country should focus on assembly-based industries rather than immediately pursuing full-scale manufacturing. According to him, sectors such as kitchen appliances, bathroom accessories, and small household equipment offer strong potential for growth through local assembly of imported components.
“This approach can generate employment, build domestic capacity, and enable the development of Pakistani brands capable of serving both local and international markets,” he said. He added that evolving trade restrictions by Western economies on Chinese goods present an opportunity for Pakistan to position itself as a competitive alternative exporter.
Addressing one of the most pressing challenges, Ihsan Ullah identified high inland transportation costs as a major barrier to trade competitiveness. He called for the development of low-cost logistics systems, particularly through the utilization of inland waterways.
Pakistan’s extensive river network, including the Indus River system, remains largely untapped for commercial transport. Ihsan Ullah proposed the development of navigable routes, small ports, and barge systems to facilitate cost-effective cargo movement from inland regions to Karachi. He noted that water transport is globally recognized as one of the most economical modes of logistics and could significantly reduce the cost of doing business.
He further pointed out that such initiatives would not only cut transportation expenses but also promote the development of industrial clusters, export processing zones, and commercial hubs along riverbanks, thereby driving regional economic growth.
In addition to waterways, he stressed the importance of reviving and modernizing Pakistan’s railway network to provide a reliable and affordable alternative for long-distance freight transport.
He expressed confidence that Pakistan has the institutional capacity to execute such projects, citing organizations like the Frontier Works Organization as capable of delivering large-scale infrastructure efficiently.
Concluding his recommendations, Ihsan Ullah stated that global trade competitiveness hinges largely on labor and transportation costs. While Pakistan already benefits from relatively low labor costs, addressing inefficiencies in domestic logistics could significantly enhance its position in international markets.
“With strategic planning and effective implementation, Pakistan can transform its business environment and emerge as a strong competitor in global trade,” he said.
