NCC Pakistan - National Compliance Centre Pakistan - Empowering Export Sectors in Pakistan

On 15th April 2025, National Compliance Centre held a session on ESG, CSDDD & Digital Product Passport (DPP). Hosted at ICCI, it gathered stakeholders to discuss global compliance trends. ICCI President emphasized industry guidance on international standards. NCC outlined its role in ESG, OSH, and strategic collaboration with SMEs. Wide industry participation marked Pakistan's proactive compliance approach.

A training session was conducted on 23rd April 2025 at the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry by the National Compliance Centre (NCC), Ministry of Commerce. The session focused on global regulatory and compliance requirements across the supply chain for Pakistan's import and export sectors. Key issues concerning the industry were discussed in detail, including the critical role of SMEs in enhancing Pakistan's future export competitiveness. Furthermore, potential collaboration between NCC and the Sialkot Chamber was highlighted for strengthening the capacity of SMEs to make them export-oriented. Discussions also covered gap analysis in the areas of accreditation, capacity building, Occupational Safety and Health (OSH), ESG frameworks, productivity, and quality. The session was led by Thematic Expert (Productivity & Quality Assurance) Dr. Tahir Zaidi and Thematic Expert (Environment) Dr. Shahbaz Ali Khan. Dr. Tahir Zaidi (NCC) provided insights into emerging global compliance trends, including the Digital Product Passport (DPP) and the EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD).

Training session was conducted on 29th of April 2025 at Gujranwala Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) by the National Compliance Centre (NCC), Ministry of Commerce, focusing on the global regulatory and compliance requirement across the supply chain for the import and export sectors of Pakistan. Issues concerning the industry were discussed in detail, along with the role of SMEs in upcoming export competitiveness of Pakistan. Furthermore, collaboration between NCC and GCCI for the capacity building of SMEs to make them export oriented along with the gap analysis in the area of accreditation, capacity building, Occupational Safety and Health (OSH), ESG framework, productivity and Quality was discussed in detail. The training was led by the Thematic expert (Productivity & Quality Assurance) Dr. Tahir Zaidi and the Thematic expert (Environment) Dr. Shahbaz Ali Khan. Dr. Tahir Zaidi (NCC) highlighted the global compliance trends, including the Digital Product Passport and EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive.

A comprehensive training session was conducted by the National Compliance Centre (NCC), Ministry of Commerce, at the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI) on April 30, 2025. The session aimed to enhance awareness and preparedness around evolving global regulatory and compliance requirements impacting Pakistan's import and export sectors. The training provided a platform for in-depth dialogue on sector-specific challenges, particularly within the pharmaceutical and gemstone industries. It also emphasized the critical role of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in enhancing Pakistan's export competitiveness and integrating into global markets. A key component of the session was the discussion on strategic collaboration between NCC and RCCI to strengthen SME capacity, with the objective of transforming them into export-oriented entities. The discussion included a comprehensive gap analysis in critical areas such as accreditation, capacity building, Occupational Safety and Health (OSH), Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) frameworks, productivity, and quality standards. The experts provided insights into evolving global compliance trends, including the implementation of the Digital Product Passport (DPP), the European Union's Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), and the broader ESG compliance landscape. Mr. Asmat Ullah Khan, Thematic Expert (Labor Rights) drew attention to the increasing importance of ethical labor practices in international trade frameworks. Dr. Shahbaz Ali Khan, Thematic Expert (Environment) emphasized the urgent need for integrating sustainability into export practices. Participants were guided on aligning domestic practices with international standards to ensure long-term sustainability and market access.

A comprehensive training session was conducted by the National Compliance Centre (NCC), Ministry of Commerce, at the Sarhad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) Peshawar on 2nd May, 2025. The session aimed to enhance awareness and preparedness around evolving global regulatory and compliance requirements impacting Pakistan's import and export sectors. The training provided a platform for in-depth dialogue on sector-specific challenges, particularly within the Textile, Furniture, Carpets and gemstone industries. It also emphasized the critical role of Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in enhancing Pakistan's export competitiveness and integrating into global markets. A key component of the session was the discussion on strategic collaboration between NCC and SCCI to strengthen SME capacity, with the objective of transforming them into export-oriented entities. The discussion included a comprehensive gap analysis in critical areas such as accreditation, capacity building, Occupational Safety and Health (OSH), Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) frameworks, productivity, and quality standards. Dr. Nabeel Amin, Head of Compliance provided insights into evolving global compliance trends, including the implementation of the Digital Product Passport (DPP), the European Union's Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), and the broader ESG compliance landscape. He emphasized the urgent need for integrating sustainability into export practices. Participants were guided on aligning domestic practices with international standards to ensure long-term sustainability and market access. Mr. Asmat Ullah Khan, Thematic Expert (Labor Rights) drew attention to the increasing importance of ethical labor practices in international trade frameworks.

On May 30th, 2025, the National Compliance Centre (NCC), Ministry of Commerce, organized a capacity-building session in Swabi focused on enhancing tobacco exports through improved compliance with international trade standards. Held in collaboration with the Swabi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (صوابی ایوان صنعت و تجارت) and PAK HILLS T&R (PVT.) LIMITED, the session was conducted by Mr. Asmat Ullah Khan. It brought together growers, dealers, distributors, trading firms, the regional tobacco market association, and export-oriented businesses to align the sector with evolving regulatory and traceability requirements. With Pakistan's tobacco export share at just 0.14% in 2023, the discussion emphasized the potential for growth through strengthened compliance and value addition. This initiative marks a strategic step toward positioning Swabi's tobacco industry as a competitive and sustainable player in the global market.

On May 20, 2025, the National Compliance Centre (NCC), Ministry of Commerce, hosted an impactful training session at the Jhelum Chamber of Commerce & Industry (JCCI) focused on the evolving global regulatory and compliance landscape impacting Pakistan's trade sector. The NCC team—Mr. Asmat Ullah Khan (Thematic Expert - OSH, Labor Laws & Human Rights), Ms. Arooj Bashir (Research Associate), and Mr. Muhammad Ibrar (Communications Officer)—was warmly welcomed by JCCI leadership, including President Haji Zahid Hussain Butt, Senior Vice President Saif Riaz, and Vice President Sheikh Saeed Zaman. A key highlight was the discussion on strategic collaboration between NCC and JCCI to empower SMEs, helping them become export-ready by addressing gaps in accreditation, compliance, ESG standards, and quality improvement. The session covered emerging global compliance frameworks such as the Digital Product Passport (DPP), EU's Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), and rising ESG obligations. Mr. Asmat Ullah Khan stressed the importance of integrating ethical labor and sustainability practices to maintain global market access. This initiative marks a vital step toward aligning Pakistan's trade practices with international standards and ensuring long-term export sustainability.

On May 28, 2025, the National Compliance Centre (NCC), Ministry of Commerce, hosted an impactful training session at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI) focused on the evolving global regulatory and compliance landscape impacting Pakistan's trade sector. The NCC team—Dr. Shahbaz Ali Khan (Thematic Expert), Mr. Muhammad Ibrar (Communication Officer) and Ms. Sana Waheed (Research Associate)—was warmly welcomed by LCCI. A key highlight was the discussion on strategic collaboration between NCC and LCCI to empower SMEs, helping them become export-ready by addressing gaps in accreditation, compliance, ESG standards, and quality improvement. The session, conducted by Dr. Shahbaz, covered emerging global compliance frameworks such as the Digital Product Passport (DPP), the EU's Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), and rising ESG obligations. Dr. Shahbaz emphasized the importance of integrating ethical labor and sustainability practices to ensure continued access to global markets. This initiative marks a vital step toward aligning Pakistan's trade practices with international standards and ensuring long-term export sustainability.

On May 28, 2025, the National Compliance Centre (NCC), Ministry of Commerce, hosted an impactful training session at the Muzaffarabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry (MCCI) focused on the evolving global regulatory and compliance landscape impacting Pakistan's trade sector. The NCC team—Dr. Tahir Zaidi (Thematic Expert), Mr. Asmat Ullah Khan (Thematic Expert) and Ms. Arooj Bashir (Research Associate)—was warmly welcomed by MCCI President Khawaja Ahtisham. A key highlight was the discussion on strategic collaboration between NCC and MCCI to empower SMEs, helping them become export-ready by addressing gaps in accreditation, compliance, ESG standards, and quality improvement. The session covered emerging global compliance frameworks such as the Digital Product Passport (DPP), EU's Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), and rising ESG obligations. Dr. Tahir Zaidi stressed the importance of integrating ethical labor and sustainability practices to maintain global market access. This initiative marks a vital step toward aligning Pakistan's trade practices with international standards and ensuring long-term export sustainability.

On May 29th, 2025, the National Compliance Centre (NCC), Ministry of Commerce, hosted an impactful training session at the Swat Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SCCI) focused on the evolving global regulatory and compliance landscape impacting Pakistan's trade sector. The NCC team—Dr. Nabeel Amin (Head of Compliance), Mr. Tufail Khan (PA to HOC) and Ms. Saba Zafar (Research Associate)—was warmly welcomed by SCCI President Noor Muhammad Khan. A key highlight was the discussion on strategic collaboration between NCC and SCCI to empower SMEs, helping them become export-ready by addressing gaps in accreditation, compliance, ESG standards, and quality improvement. The session covered emerging global compliance frameworks such as the Digital Product Passport (DPP), EU's Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), and rising ESG obligations. Dr. Nabeel Amin stressed the importance of integrating ethical labor and sustainability practices to maintain global market access. This initiative marks a vital step toward aligning Pakistan's trade practices with international standards and ensuring long-term export sustainability.

On June 3rd, 2025, the National Compliance Centre (NCC), Ministry of Commerce, hosted an impactful training session at the Multan Chamber of Commerce & Industry (MCCI) focused on the evolving global regulatory and compliance landscape impacting Pakistan's trade sector. The NCC team—Dr. Shahbaz Ali Khan (Thematic Expert), Ms. Saba Zafar (Research Associate) and Ms. Arooj Bashir (Research Associate)—was warmly welcomed by MCCI. A key highlight was the discussion on strategic collaboration between NCC and MCCI to empower SMEs, helping them become export-ready by addressing gaps in accreditation, compliance, ESG standards, and quality improvement. The session covered emerging global compliance frameworks such as the Digital Product Passport (DPP), the EU's Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), and rising ESG obligations. Dr. Shahbaz Ali stressed the importance of integrating ethical labor and sustainability practices to maintain global market access. This initiative marks a vital step toward aligning Pakistan's trade practices with international standards and ensuring long-term export sustainability.

On 23rd June 2025, the National Compliance Centre (NCC), Ministry of Commerce, conducted an impactful training session at the Nowshera Chamber of Commerce & Industry (NCCI) focused on the evolving global regulatory and compliance landscape impacting Pakistan's trade sector. The training focused on special requirements from global compliance frameworks of international brands and EU regions for exports from Pakistan, with key discussions on sectors such as Textile, Medicine, and Marble. The NCC team—Mr. Asmat Ullah (Thematic Expert), Ms. Saba Zafar (Research Associate) and Mr. Muhammad Tufail (PA to HOC)—was warmly welcomed by NCCI. A key highlight was the discussion on strategic collaboration between NCC and NCCI to empower SMEs, helping them become export-ready by addressing gaps in accreditation, compliance, ESG standards, and quality improvement. The session covered emerging global compliance frameworks such as the Digital Product Passport (DPP), the EU's Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), and rising ESG obligations. This initiative marks a vital step toward aligning Pakistan's trade practices with international standards and ensuring long-term export sustainability.

On 17 June 2025, Head of Compliance & PD National Compliance Centre (NCC), Ministry of Commerce (MoC), Dr. Nabeel Amin, visited the Quetta Chamber of Commerce & Industry (QCCI) and addressed members during an awareness session focused on export readiness and compliance. He was warmly welcomed by QCCI President Haji Muhammad Ayub Khan Marriani. President appreciated NCC efforts in supporting the development of the export-oriented training plan for the industry. The session included active participation from stakeholders across key sectors, including rice exporters, meat, dairies, sesame, olives, palm oil, cotton, wool fiber, dry fruit, and fresh fruit. The event concluded with the presentation of a commemorative shield to Dr. Nabeel Amin in recognition of his valuable insights and collaboration.

Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry awareness session.

On 29th July 2025, a training session was held at the Sargodha Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SCCI) on "Requirements of the Compliances by ESG Framework, DPP, OSH, Labor Laws, Human Rights & CSDDD." The session was conducted by the National Compliance Centre (NCC) team, which included Mr. Asmat Ullah Khan (Thematic Expert – OSH, Human Rights & Labor Laws) and Ms. Arooj Bashir (Research Associate). The training focused on key sectors including Citrus, Furniture, Salt, Electric appliances, Agriculture Machinery and Handicrafts. A major highlight of the session was the discussion on strengthening strategic collaboration between NCC and SCCI. The goal is to empower small and medium enterprises (SMEs) by addressing critical gaps in accreditation, ESG compliance, quality standards, OSH compliance, incorporating Labor Laws and Human Rights, and overall export preparedness. This initiative seeks to build the capacity of local industries to meet evolving global trade expectations and regulatory frameworks. Key points discussed included strengthening NCC-SCCI collaboration for SME development, bridging gaps in ESG compliance and accreditation, enhancing product quality and export readiness in local sectors, capacity building in line with DPP, adhering OSH Compliances, incorporating Labour Laws and Human Rights & CSDDD frameworks, and promoting long-term sustainability in Pakistan's export practices. This partnership marks an essential step toward aligning Pakistan's trade practices with international standards, ultimately contributing to sustainable and inclusive export growth.

On 11th August 2025, the National Compliance Centre (NCC) conducted an important session at the Lasbela Chamber of Commerce and Industry, titled "New Due Diligence Directives by ESG Framework, CSDDD, Environment, OSH, and DPP." The session was led by Dr. Nabeel Amin (Head of Compliance), Ms. Saba Zafar (Research Associate), and Mr. Agha Mansoor Qaisar Khan, highlighting NCC's proactive role in advancing national compliance readiness. The NCC team briefed participants on the critical elements of the ESG Framework, Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), Occupational Safety & Health (OSH), Environmental regulations, and the Digital Product Passport (DPP). Emphasis was placed on supporting exporters and SMEs in aligning with upcoming sustainability and traceability requirements. Key sectors discussed included Power Cables, Resin / Molding Compounds, Knitted Fabric, and Synthetic fibers. NCC also shared its roadmap for capacity-building and urged collaboration from chambers, export associations, and sectoral stakeholders to strengthen compliance infrastructure. The session reinforced NCC's commitment to facilitating Pakistan's industries in navigating evolving international regulatory landscapes.

On 12th August 2025, the National Compliance Centre (NCC) held a strategic awareness session at the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) titled "New Due Diligence Directives by ESG Framework, CSDDD, Environment, OSH, and DPP." The session was chaired by Muhammad Jawed Bilwani, President KCCI & Vice Chairman BMG, and conducted by the NCC team: Dr. Nabeel Amin (Head of Compliance), Ms. Saba Zafar (Research Associate), and Mr. Agha Mansoor Qaisar Khan. The session saw active participation from 37 industry stakeholders, including representatives from PHMA, PLGMEA, Aslam Pakhali (Chairman All Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Exporters Association), and prominent KCCI leadership—Zia Ul Arfeen (Senior Vice President KCCI), Faisal Khalil Ahmed (Vice President KCCI), along with members of the KCCI Managing Committee. Key topics discussed included oversight of ESG Framework, CSDDD, OSH, Environment, and Digital Product Passport (DPP), NCC's role in supporting exporters and SMEs with evolving compliance obligations, and awareness of upcoming sustainability-driven regulatory frameworks. Key sectors covered included Textile and Fruits & Vegetables. It was an interactive session that gathered input and suggestions from stakeholders on the effectiveness of NCC.

On 30th October 2025, the National Compliance Centre (NCC), Ministry of Commerce, conducted an Awareness Session at the Gujrat Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GTCCI) on the Requirements of Export Compliances in accordance with ESG, CSDDD, DPP & OSH. The session focused on export compliance requirements under Occupational Safety and Health (OSH), Labour Laws, Human Rights, Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Framework, Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), and Digital Product Passport (DPP). The NCC team included Mr. Asmat Ullah Khan (Thematic Expert), Mr. Hamza (Junior Thematic Expert), and Ms. Amna Waheed (Research Associate). Participants included Mr. Ali (Taimoor Fan Industry), Mr. Awais and Mr. Adil (Med House Pharmaceuticals), Mr. Adil (Adil Traders), Mr. Ahmed Hassan (President, GTCCI), and Mr. Usman Muzaffar (Secretary General, GTCCI). The session provided an introduction to the role, objectives, and initiatives of the NCC, emphasizing the need for coordination and collaboration between NCC and GTCCI. In closing, Mr. Asmat Ullah Khan and Mr. Ahmed Hassan commended the joint initiative and reaffirmed their commitment to capacity building, collaboration, and future sectoral training programs. The session concluded with a shared vision to promote sustainable, responsible, and globally competitive industries across Pakistan.

On 10 July 2025, the National Compliance Centre (NCC) conducted an awareness session at the Pakistan Textile Exporters Association (PTEA) to enhance understanding and capacity on critical sustainability and compliance topics. The session covered circularity, environmental standards, ECO design, the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), and the Digital Product Passport (DPP). Led by Dr. Shahbaz Ali Khan (Thematic Expert – Environment), Ms. Arooj Bashir (Research Associate), and Mr. Muhammad Ibrar (Media & Communication Officer), the session provided practical insights on integrating circular economy principles and improving product sustainability. This initiative supports the textile sector's transition toward responsible production, innovation, and global market alignment. Participating associations included Nimra Textile (Pvt) Ltd., Bismillah Textiles Ltd, Chawala Enterprises, Dawood Exports Pvt. Ltd., and AB Exports (PVT) LTD.

On 12th August 2025, the National Compliance Centre (NCC) conducted a focused session at the Pakistan Readymade Garments Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PRGMEA) titled "New Due Diligence Directives in Export Sector and Eco-Design: Sustainability & Circularity." The session was led by Dr. Nabeel Amin (Head of Compliance), Mr. Agha Mansoor Qaisar Khan, and Ms. Saba Zafar (Research Associate), and was attended by 14 participants, including Mr. Amir Chottani, Chairman of PRGMEA. The session highlighted the growing importance of eco-design in the textile and garment sector, focusing on key sustainable practices such as use of eco-friendly and recycled materials, low-impact dyes and efficient use of water and energy, waste reduction and durable product development, biodegradability and recyclability in textile design, and eco-friendly packaging and ethical production practices. The NCC team also shared insights on new due diligence directives guiding exporters toward sustainable, compliant, and circular value chains in alignment with evolving global regulatory frameworks.

On 25 June 2025, the National Compliance Centre (NCC) organized a training session at the Pakistan Gloves Manufacturers and Exporters Association (PGMEA), Sialkot, to align with evolving international regulatory requirements and improve their global market competitiveness. Dr. Shahbaz Ali Khan, Thematic Expert on Environment, led the session with a detailed presentation on the NCC's mission, strategic direction, and key functions. He highlighted the Centre's pivotal role in guiding industries through complex compliance landscapes by promoting adherence to global standards such as Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) frameworks, the EU's Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) standards, LWG Certification, REACH and RoHS regulations, the Digital Product Passport (DPP), and ISO 14001:2015 for environmental management. Dr. Shahbaz emphasized that under the EU's CSDDD, companies are now legally obligated to implement robust due diligence measures across their supply chains to identify, prevent, and mitigate risks related to human rights and the environment. Failure to comply could lead to legal consequences and restrictions on market access. The session also underscored the growing importance of digital traceability through tools like the DPP, which are essential for ensuring transparency across production and supply chains. Particular attention was given to the Sialkot gloves industry, with recommendations on how adopting ESG principles, responsible business conduct, and ISO 14001 standards can significantly boost export potential. The training concluded with a reaffirmation of NCC's collaborative approach, working closely with national partners such as SMEDA, TDAP, and PRGMEA, as well as international organizations like the ILO, WWF, GIZ, and the World Bank. Through these partnerships, NCC remains committed to supporting industries in meeting global sustainability, compliance, and traceability demands.

On 16th July 2025, Dr. Shahbaz Ali Khan, representing the National Compliance Centre (NCC), led a comprehensive awareness session in collaboration with SMEDA at PLGMEA Sialkot, introducing NCC's mandate, background, and objectives to local exporters and stakeholders. The session spotlighted key global compliance certifications such as LWG, REACH, WRAP, ISO, and OEKO-TEX Standard 100, and explored critical upcoming EU regulatory frameworks under the ESG umbrella, including EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directives (CSDDD), Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), Digital Product Passport (DPP), and CE Marking. Dr. Shahbaz emphasized the growing importance of Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) compliance as a core expectation of international buyers. He also shared NCC's future roadmap focusing on sector-specific training, capacity building, and the establishment of regional compliance desks to better serve exporters across Pakistan. The session concluded with a call to action for chambers, associations, and SMEs to actively engage with NCC to bridge compliance gaps and build customized, industry-aligned support systems.