Empowering of SMEs through E-Commerce, business development, & managing value chain in Gilgit-Baltistan

Implementing Partners

A joint venture between Karakoram Area Development Organization (KADO) and Hunza Chamber of Commerce and Industry (HCCI).

Project Overview

The project, funded by EDF, aims to empower Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) by enhancing their export capabilities. This initiative is set to play a pivotal role in unlocking the untapped potential of the region’s unique local products and expanding their reach to international markets.

Key Components of the Project:
  • Training Program The project will offer specialized training programs tailored to the specific needs of SMEs in G-B. These training modules will cover essential areas such as product development, quality assurance, packaging, marketing, and export regulations. The objective is to equip local entrepreneurs with the necessary skills and knowledge to compete effectively in the global market
  • Building Value Chains The project will focus on establishing robust value chains within G-B. This involves connecting various stakeholders in the production and distribution process, including raw material suppliers, manufacturers, distributors, and retailers. By optimizing these chains, the project aims to streamline processes, reduce costs, and enhance the overall competitiveness of G-B products.
  • E-commerce Platform Development Recognizing the increasing importance of e-commerce in the global marketplace, the project will facilitate the creation of a dedicated online platform. This platform will serve as a marketplace for G-B products, providing a digital storefront for local SMEs to showcase and sell their goods to a broader audience, both domestically and internationally.
Expected Outcomes
  • Increased Export Capacity KADO anticipates the project to bring a significant surge in the export capacity of G-B's local products, as SMEs become better equipped to meet international standards and regulations.
  • Job Creation and Economic Growth By empowering SMEs, the project aims to stimulate economic growth within G-B, creating new employment opportunities and contributing to the overall prosperity of the region.
  • Improved Product Quality and Standards Through targeted training and value chain development, the project will elevate the quality of G-B products, enabling them to meet or exceed international standards and thereby gain a competitive edge in global markets.
  • Digital Market Access The establishment of an e-commerce platform will grant local SMEs direct access to a broader customer base, reducing dependency on traditional distribution channels and opening up new avenues for sales.
  • Sustainable Business Practices The project will promote sustainable business practices, including eco-friendly production methods and responsible sourcing of raw materials, to ensure the long-term viability of G-B's export industry. Overall, this project represents a crucial step towards harnessing the economic potential of Gilgit-Baltistan, unlocking new opportunities for local entrepreneurs, and showcasing the rich diversity of G-B products on the global stage