Trade-Related Industrial Policy

On January 29, 2024, the Lahore School of Economics’ Innovation and Technology Center (ITC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce hosted a webinar titled “Trade-Related Industrial Policy in Pakistan.” The event featured presentations by Dr. Azam Amjad Chaudhry, Dean and Pro Rector at LSE, and Mr. Muhammad Ashraf, Consul General (Trade & Investment) at the Consulate General of Pakistan in Sydney.
Dr. Chaudhry’s presentation provided a comprehensive framework for understanding industrial policy, tracing its historical evolution and empirical foundations. He examined Pakistan’s trade-related industrial policy through the lens of global databases such as the Global Trade Alert and the Atlas of Economic Complexity, highlighting the country’s trade-restrictive and liberalizing measures. His analysis emphasized the importance of complexity indices in identifying high-potential export products and concluded with actionable policy recommendations.
Mr. Ashraf’s session contextualized the need for a forward-looking industrial policy in light of Pakistan’s structural economic challenges, including persistent deficits and growth volatility. He advocated for a shift toward export-led growth, integration into global value chains, and a policy environment that rewards productivity and competitiveness over lobbying.
The webinar concluded with an interactive Q&A session, fostering dialogue on the future of industrial policy in Pakistan and its alignment with global trade dynamics.