SME Certification in Pakistan: SMEDA’s New Support Program

Staff Report

LAHORE–As Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are universally recognized as a cornerstone of economic growth, the importance of certification and accreditation cannot be overstated. Across developed economies, business organizations demonstrate their commitment to quality, safety and regulatory compliance by acquiring internationally recognized certifications.

In Pakistan, SMEs are a major source of employment and contribute to the national economic growth. There are around seven million small and medium economic establishments in the country, contributing 40 percent to GDP, creating 78pc of non-agriculture employment and generating 30pc of exports in Pakistan.

Yet most Pakistani SMEs operate on a very small and undocumented scale with limited access to finance and international trade opportunities.

SMEDA Certification in Pakistan: A Path to Global Expansion

In order to bridge the gap and make Pakistani SMEs globally competitive, the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) is supporting the SMEs through several initiatives.

One of the initiatives is the launch of the SME Certification & International Accreditation Grant Program, which aims to provide a comprehensive support to SMEs by offering grants to cover costs associated with certifications and accreditations.

Officials say the Certification Program, aligned with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s vision of promoting formalization, boosting exports and national economic growth, will enable eligible SMEs to get certification grants and have an opportunity to meet international standards and compete globally.

How the Program Strengthens SME Competitiveness

They assure that the program will be implemented in a fully transparent manner, with applications processed strictly on a first-come, first-served basis. The national initiative aims to empower SMEs – the backbone of the economy – by enabling them to obtain internationally recognized certifications to enhance global competitiveness and boost exports.

They further note that start-ups and women entrepreneurs are especially encouraged to apply, as SMEDA has made the application process both convenient and transparent.

Through expert consultancy, say officials, SMEs can seek guidance to become export-ready, improve processes and strengthen their businesses to contribute meaningfully to national economic growth.

Awareness, Training, and International Compliance Support

To achieve the objectives of the initiative, SMEDA also educates SMEs about the benefits of international compliance and export development. It aims to help businesses understand the steps and advantages of certification through awareness campaigns and seminars.

How SMEs Can Apply for the Grant Program

Officials say the entrepreneurs interested in participating in the program can check their eligibility and apply through the SMEDA website or SME Registration Portal.

Registration is free and marks the beginning of a transition from informal entrepreneurship toward sustainable and profitable business growth, say officials.