Karachi witnessed the joint organization of a stakeholder engagement session at Federation House. The event was organized by SMEDA and to commemorate World MSME Day 2026.
Atif Ikram Sheikh, President , highlighted that the gathering included MSMEs, entrepreneurs, representatives from chambers and trade associations, women entrepreneurs, young entrepreneurs, financial institutions, academia, and other stakeholders.
Saquib Fayyaz Magoon, SVP , emphasized that Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are the backbone of Pakistan’s economy. He also stressed the need for close collaboration between public and private sectors to strengthen MSMEs.
Zeeshan Ahmed, Regional Chief SMEDA, discussed the significance of World MSME Day and outlined SMEDA’s mandate, services, and ongoing initiatives for MSME development. He informed participants that SMEDA continues to facilitate MSMEs through various programs including business development services, entrepreneurship support, policy advocacy, access to finance facilitation, cluster development initiatives, export development support, and capacity-building programs.
Mashood Ali Khan, Member Board of Directors SMEDA, was honored as Guest of Honor. He underscored the importance of entrepreneurship and enterprise development in strengthening Pakistan’s economy. He appreciated the role played by MSMEs in creating employment opportunities, fostering innovation, and promoting inclusive economic growth.
During the interactive session, stakeholders discussed key issues affecting MSMEs such as energy costs, access to finance, export development, and regulatory challenges. The participants also shared recommendations aimed at improving the business environment and enhancing the competitiveness of local enterprises.
The event concluded with a renewed commitment by all participants to work collectively towards creating an enabling environment for entrepreneurship, enterprise growth, and job creation in Pakistan.
Brig Iftikhar Opel, SI (M), Retd. Secretary General