Ahmed Khan Malik

The Sindh Commerce Department is formulating a comprehensive strategy to strengthen the province’s rapidly growing e-commerce sector, aiming to promote digital entrepreneurship, empower women artisans, and modernize the overall business environment.

With rising smartphone use and expanding internet access, online trade has become one of the fastest-growing segments of Pakistan’s economy. Recognizing its potential, the Sindh government is taking steps to ensure that the benefits of digital commerce reach every corner of the province — from urban start-ups in Karachi to rural craftswomen in interior Sindh.

“The new incentive plan is part of the government’s broader digital economy vision. By introducing fiscal relief, training programs, and digital platforms, the Commerce Department aims to make online business more accessible, reliable, and profitable,” Naveed Dharejo, Director of the Commerce Department, told Wealth Pakistan.

Under the proposed scheme, several support measures are being finalized. These include tax concessions for registered online sellers, streamlined licensing and registration through digital portals, and subsidized access to logistics and warehousing facilities.

Special focus is being placed on women entrepreneurs and home-based workers, who often lack the means to connect with larger markets. Dedicated e-commerce platforms will be launched to help them sell handmade products, textiles, and crafts directly to consumers without relying on intermediaries. Training programs on online marketing, customer engagement, and digital payments will also be rolled out across all districts of Sindh.

Another major component of the plan involves collaboration with technology companies and payment service providers to promote safe and traceable digital transactions. “The Commerce Department is also encouraging private logistics firms to expand their delivery networks in underserved areas, making it easier for small sellers to ship their products nationwide,” Dharejo added.

Officials believe the incentives will significantly benefit small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), many of which struggle to compete with larger brands in traditional retail. By moving online, these businesses can reach a wider customer base and reduce operational costs.

The Sindh Small Industries Corporation (SSIC) will play a central role in integrating local producers, such as artisans, craft makers, and small manufacturers, into the online economy. Training centers will be established to help these entrepreneurs acquire digital skills and enhance product quality and packaging to meet global standards.

Officials said the initiative is expected to generate economic growth and promote social inclusion. By empowering women and rural youth to participate in digital trade, the government aims to create sustainable employment opportunities and new sources of income. The plan also seeks to encourage innovation, attract investment in technology, and foster start-ups developing digital solutions for logistics, payments, and customer support.

According to projections, within a few years, the e-commerce sector could become a major contributor to Sindh’s GDP and help diversify its economic base beyond traditional industries. As more small businesses formalize their operations online, tax revenues are expected to increase, providing additional resources for digital infrastructure and training programs.

Credit: INP-WealthPk