Govt taking steps to make ‘Made in Pakistan’ globally trusted brand: Ahsan Iqbal

LAHORE, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 15th May, 2026) Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Ahsan Iqbal on Friday said the government was taking practical steps to introduce “Made in Pakistan” as a strong, reliable and high-quality brand at the global level, stressing that industrial growth and exports were key to sustainable economic stability.

Addressing the inaugural ceremony of METSFAB 2026 at Expo Centre Lahore, he said Pakistan possessed immense potential in the engineering and manufacturing sectors and urged global manufacturers and investors to explore opportunities in the country. He said strong manufacturing formed the foundation of sustainable development, industrial self-reliance and economic strength, adding that countries with advanced manufacturing sectors played a leading role in the global economy.

Ahsan Iqbal said developed economies strengthened their financial position by producing aircraft, ships, tractors, automobiles, heavy machinery, industrial equipment and advanced technology products.

He said Pakistan’s youth had the capability to excel in modern technology and industrial innovation, adding that the engineering sector served as the backbone of a modern economy.

The federal minister said exhibitions like METSFAB provided Pakistani engineers and industrialists an opportunity to showcase their products and expertise before the world while also attracting foreign investors towards Pakistan’s industrial potential.

He said the government’s economic policy focused on boosting exports and industrial production, adding that a target had been set to increase Pakistan’s exports to $100 billion over the next decade.

Without enhancing exports, sustainable economic growth would not be possible, he said, adding that the government was implementing a comprehensive strategy to modernise industries and strengthen economic productivity.

Ahsan said it was essential to make “Made in Pakistan” a symbol of quality, innovation and trust across international markets.

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Replying to a question, he said Pakistan faced severe financial difficulties and economic losses between 2018 and 2022, forcing the country to approach international financial institutions, particularly the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

He said the incumbent government, under the leadership of the prime minister, was taking concrete measures for economic recovery, fiscal discipline and investment promotion.

Referring to global developments, the minister said tensions between Iran and the United States had contributed to rising oil prices, affecting economies worldwide, including Pakistan. He said inflation and the energy crisis had severely impacted developing countries.

He said the government was introducing reforms in the administrative structure and reducing bureaucratic hurdles, unnecessary regulations and red tape to create a business-friendly environment for investors.

To another question, Ahsan said Pakistan desired peace and de-escalation between Iran and the US, adding that regional peace and stability were vital for economic growth and prosperity.

Commenting on Indian threats, he said that after Marka-e-Haq, India would think “a thousand times” before committing any aggression against Pakistan. He said Pakistan was a responsible and peace-loving country but fully capable of defending its sovereignty.

He said some Indian politicians used anti-Pakistan rhetoric for domestic political gains and election campaigns, whereas Pakistan’s political leadership never exploited anti-India sentiments for political purposes.

The minister reiterated that Pakistan sought peace, economic cooperation and mutual respect in the region and said the government was committed to transforming the country into a strong economic power through industrial growth, export enhancement, technological advancement and youth skill development.

Later, the minister visited various stalls at the exhibition and appreciated the quality of products displayed there.