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By Sabeeh Zanair :
Pakistan has taken a major step towards strengthening its digital economy after completing the draft of its Second National E-Commerce Policy, a comprehensive framework aimed at increasing the country’s participation in global online trade and helping local businesses reach international markets by 2030.
According to the Ministry of Commerce, the policy was developed after extensive consultations with key stakeholders and a detailed review of successful e-commerce strategies implemented around the world. Participants in the consultation process included online marketplaces, banks, fintech companies, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), freelancers, technology firms and regulatory authorities.
The new policy is designed to address several challenges that have slowed the growth of Pakistan’s e-commerce sector. It focuses on improving digital payment interoperability, strengthening logistics and delivery systems, and introducing modern business facilitation services that can make online commerce more efficient and accessible for entrepreneurs and consumers alike.
Officials believe that creating a secure and business-friendly digital environment will encourage greater participation in online trade, attract investment into the technology sector and support the country’s broader economic modernisation efforts.
As part of the implementation plan, the government intends to launch a Digital Onboarding System that will simplify business registration procedures and make it easier for entrepreneurs to enter the digital marketplace. Authorities say the initiative will reduce bureaucratic hurdles and encourage more businesses to adopt online trading models.
The Ministry of Commerce is also working closely with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to strengthen the technological infrastructure required for sustainable e-commerce growth. Joint efforts include enhancing cybersecurity standards, improving digital connectivity and ensuring safer online transactions for businesses and consumers.
At the same time, work is progressing on a dedicated cross-border e-commerce portal under the Pakistan Single Window initiative. The platform is expected to streamline international trade procedures, reduce documentation requirements and help Pakistani businesses connect more efficiently with overseas customers.
Discussions between the Ministry of Commerce and the State Bank of Pakistan are continuing on payment mechanisms and regulatory frameworks needed to facilitate international digital transactions. Officials say these measures will play a crucial role in supporting exporters and online sellers seeking access to foreign markets.
Government representatives highlighted that Pakistani sellers already have access to major international e-commerce platforms such as Amazon, eBay and Alibaba. Various support measures introduced in recent years have enabled local entrepreneurs to establish online stores and market their products to customers around the world.
The authorities expect the new policy to further strengthen these opportunities by improving digital infrastructure, simplifying regulations and enhancing access to global marketplaces. Increased participation in international e-commerce could help boost exports, generate foreign exchange earnings and create new employment opportunities across multiple sectors.
The completion of the Second National E-Commerce Policy represents an important milestone in Pakistan’s digital transformation journey. Over the past decade, internet penetration, smartphone usage and digital payment adoption have grown significantly, creating favourable conditions for the expansion of online commerce.
Experts note that the policy’s success will depend on effective implementation, coordination among government institutions and continued investment in digital infrastructure. If these objectives are achieved, Pakistan could significantly increase its share of the global e-commerce market, strengthen its export sector and position local businesses to compete more effectively in the rapidly evolving digital economy.
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