Lahore: A top Pakistani official has cast micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) as the linchpin of the government's growth strategy, signaling a shift toward private-sector-driven economic resilience. Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan made the remarks at Expo Faisalabad 2026, framing the sector as vital to both industrial development and export promotion. Main Developments Speaking at the Expo Centre in Faisalabad on Saturday, Khan reaffirmed the government's commitment to building a robust and competitive ecosystem for MSMEs. He emphasized that the sector is central to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's vision for sustainable economic growth, industrial expansion, and boosting exports. Khan praised the Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FCCI) for organizing the exhibition, calling the city the industrial and textile heart of Pakistan. He noted that platforms like Expo Faisalabad create opportunities for entrepreneurs to showcase products, forge business partnerships, and explore new markets. Read also: Boring Company nears $20 billion valuation in new funding round Background Pakistan has long struggled to formalize its vast informal economy, where MSMEs account for a significant share of employment but face chronic barriers to financing and market access. The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (Smeda) has been tasked with bridging this gap through outreach and support programs. Khan drew a parallel between military strength and economic resilience, stating that after demonstrating military prowess, it is now time for Pakistan to show economic development. His remarks come amid ongoing efforts to stabilize an economy hit by inflation and external debt pressures. Why It Matters MSMEs are often described as the backbone of emerging economies, generating jobs and innovation where large industries cannot reach. For Pakistan, unlocking this sector's potential could reduce unemployment, expand the tax base, and boost exports—key priorities under the current administration. Khan specifically highlighted government initiatives to improve access to finance, promote business formalization, and create an enabling environment for entrepreneurs. Without such support, many small businesses remain trapped in low-productivity, cash-only operations. What's Next Smeda plans to continue its proactive engagement with business communities through exhibitions and outreach activities nationwide. The government is expected to roll out further measures to ease credit access and simplify registration for MSMEs, though specific timelines remain unannounced. The success of these efforts will depend on consistent implementation and whether entrepreneurs can translate platform events like Expo Faisalabad into sustained growth.