EXPORTING TO GREAT BRITAIN: A GUIDE FOR PAKISTANI WOMEN-LED AGRIFOOD BUSINESSES

INTRODUCTION

The International Trade Centre (ITC), in partnership with the UK government, has developed a comprehensive guide titled "Exporting to Great Britain: A Handbook for Pakistani Women-Led Businesses in the Agrifood Sector." This handbook is designed to

assist Pakistani women-led small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in understanding the legal and regulatory requirements for exporting agrifood products to Great Britain, including England, Wales, and Scotland.

PURPOSE OF THE HANDBOOK

The primary goal of this handbook is to provide crucial information and support to

Pakistani women-led SMEs, including those that are new to exporting agrifood products. The handbook covers a wide range of products such as fresh fruits and vegetables,

processed foods, seafood, spices, nuts, confectionery, and cereals.

The Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry recognizes the efforts of the ITC and the UK government and has created this blog for easy access to this information. For a detailed explanation, the handbooks are accessible in both English and Urdu at the WCCIS website.

1. PREPARING YOUR BUSINESS FOR EXPORTS

   
   

   1. REGISTERING YOUR EXPORT BUSINESS IN PAKISTAN

      1. Company Registration

         Pakistani citizens with a valid Computerized National Identity Card can register their companies with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP). They can choose to register as a ‘single member company’ or form a ‘private limited company’ in partnership. The SECP website provides detailed information on registration procedures, which include options that vary in costs, benefits, and legal protections. For more information, visit the SECP website.

      2. Tax Registration

         Exporters must register with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) through the IRIS portal to obtain a National Tax Number (NTN) and Sales Tax Registration Number. This registration is crucial for income tax and export-related

         transactions. The SECP and FBR systems are integrated to provide a streamlined registration process. Detailed information can be found on the FBR website.

         
         

      3. Chambers of Commerce and Trade Associations

         Exporters should also register with relevant chambers of commerce to benefit from services like obtaining certificates of origin, document attestation, and capacity-building training. These associations provide valuable support, including networking opportunities and trade fair participation. More

         information is available on the websites of local chambers of commerce, such as the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry Sialkot (WCCIS).

         
         

      4. Pakistan Customs

         Businesses planning to export must subscribe to the Pakistan Single Window (PSW) system, which integrates major trade regulatory agencies to streamline the export process. The PSW system facilitates the submission of required documents and ensures efficient clearance of goods. Visit the PSW website for further details.

         
         

      5. Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP)

         TDAP offers various services, including updated export and import policies, market promotion, and participation in international trade fairs. Women entrepreneurs can join the Women Entrepreneurship Programme for additional support and training. For more information, visit the TDAP website.

         
         

      6. Export Processing Zones Authority

         Registering with the Export Processing Zones Authority allows exporters to establish units in designated zones, offering benefits like duty-free imports and tax exemptions. Details can be found on the EPZA website.

         
         

   2. UNDERSTANDING YOUR PRODUCTS

      1. Classification of Goods

         Goods exported internationally are classified using the Harmonized System (HS) Code, which determines applicable duties, taxes, and regulatory requirements. Correct classification is essential for compliance and to benefit from trade

         preferences. For more information, consult the World Customs Organization website.

         
         

      2. Research on Pakistan Export Restrictions

         The Ministry of Commerce publishes an annual Export Policy Order that lists permissible exports and any restrictions. Regularly checking updates from relevant government departments is recommended to stay informed about

         changes in export laws and procedures. Visit the Ministry of Commerce website for more information.

         
         

2. ENGAGING WITH BUYERS TO EXPORT

   1. Finding Buyers and Finalizing Contracts

      After registering and ensuring product compliance, exporters need to find suitable buyers in Great Britain. Engaging with TDAP, chambers of commerce, and relevant associations can provide valuable market intelligence and export opportunities.

      Establishing a detailed sales contract, including delivery terms and payment conditions, is crucial for successful transactions. The UK Department for

      International Trade website offers resources for connecting with buyers in Great Britain.

      
      

   2. Ensuring Compliance with Sanitary and Phytosanitary Requirements

   Exporters must obtain the necessary quality and health certificates, often requiring registration with relevant authorities and arranging inspections. The PSW system facilitates the online submission and approval process for these certificates. More information is available on the FAO website.

   
   

3. EXPORTING TO GREAT BRITAIN

   1. Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS)

      The DCTS provides trade preferences for Pakistani products, offering 0% import tariffs on 92% of product lines. Exporters should determine applicable tariffs and comply with the rules of origin to benefit from these preferences. Detailed information can be found on the UK Government website.

      
      

   2. Standards and Regulatory Requirements

   Exporters must adhere to standards and regulations for manufacturing, packaging, and labeling. This includes compliance with health standards, import controls, and

   obtaining necessary licenses and certificates. More information is available on the British Standards Institution website.

   
   

4. CUSTOMS AND RELATED PROCEDURES

   I. CLEARING CUSTOMS

   Proper preparation and submission of export documentation are essential for smooth customs clearance. Exporters should use the PSW system to file export declarations and obtain necessary clearances. Visit the HM Revenue & Customs website for detailed information.

   
   

   III. FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS AND DOCUMENTATION

   Securing financial transactions and completing documents like the commercial invoice, packing list, and goods declaration are vital steps in the export process. More details are available on the International Chamber of Commerce website.

   
   

5. TRANSPORTATION AND LOGISTICS

Selecting appropriate transportation and logistics options is integral to the export process. This includes deciding between sea and air transportation and ensuring proper transport documentation to avoid disputes. More information can be found on the International Trade Centre website.

CONCLUSION

The handbook "Exporting to Great Britain: A Handbook for Pakistani Women-Led Businesses in the Agrifood Sector" is an invaluable resource for women entrepreneurs in Pakistan. By following the guidelines and leveraging the available resources, Pakistani women-led SMEs can successfully navigate the complex process of exporting agri-food products to Great Britain. The comprehensive support and information provided in this handbook are instrumental in helping Pakistani women-led businesses thrive in the

international marketplace, contributing to sustainable development and economic empowerment.

For information regarding export of textiles, accessories and garments to UK, read the WCCIS blog on “Exporting to Great Britain: A handbook for Pakistani women-led businesses in the women's accessories, textiles and apparel, and home de´cor sectors".

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