Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Pak Suzuki Motor Company Limited Hiroshi Kawamura said the company is looking forward to a new auto policy that encourages greater localisation of parts.

"Suzuki continues assisting in the development of Pakistani vendor companies so they can meet global standards," Kawamura said while talking to the media at the SME Cluster Expo in Lahore the other day. He said foreign investment is extremely important for Pakistan, not only for bringing in overseas dollars but also for transferring technology and building industrial capability. "Pakistan needs strong SMEs, and it also needs strong foreign partners. This Expo plays an important role in connecting SMEs with large industry, opening new opportunities and strengthening Pakistan's industrial ecosystem.

"I would also like to express our sincere appreciation to SMEDA. Your efforts to support SMEs across Pakistan are essential for the country's industrial future, and we are pleased to be part of this mission," he said. The SME Cluster Expo was organised by SMEDA (Small and Medium Enterprise Development Authority and the Ministry of Industries), in which over 174 micro, small and medium entrepreneurs showcased their products and explored opportunities. Mashood Khan, Director SMEDA, said SMEs play a critical role in the national economy by contributing significantly to employment and exports, as SMEs employ nearly 25 million Pakistanis and contribute approximately Rs2.8 billion in exports.

"This clearly demonstrates that SMEs are not small in impact; they are the backbone of our economy, with vast untapped potential. However, unlocking this potential requires timely, practical and bold policy action," Khan said.

He added that the resilience and innovation of SMEs are driving Pakistan's industrial growth and that, with the right policy support, SMEs can unlock their full potential and boost the national economy. "We must recognise a fundamental reality: Pakistan's economic resilience, industrial growth and export expansion depend heavily on SMEs," he said.

Khan noted that during the Covid-19 pandemic, SMEs stepped forward, localised production, filled supply gaps and ensured continuity with limited resources but unlimited commitment.

He said the event drew significant interest from national companies and consumers, with many MSMEs securing orders and sales, while the Expo is expected to pave the way for future collaborations and growth opportunities for Pakistan's MSMEs.