Federal Minister Ahsan Iqbal calls for national branding strategy to boost Pakistani exports

Shift from low-value commodity exports

The minister stated that Pakistan must move away from selling low-value commodities to focus on high-value, differentiated products. He emphasized that long-term economic sovereignty depends on strengthening value addition and securing better international market access for local goods.

NCBD support for global transition

The National Center for Brand Development will assist local industries in moving from domestic sales to direct global exports. Ahsan Iqbal noted that the country produces world-class items like textiles and surgical instruments but often loses value when foreign brands market them.

Seven pillars of national brand

The proposed strategy relies on seven key pillars identified under the Nation Brand Lens framework. These elements include culture, sports, arts, and other sources of soft power designed to strengthen the nations global image.