U.S. Expands Opportunities for Pakistani Women

USAID Launches ‘Women in Trade Initiative’

In conjunction with several multinational firms, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) is launching the ‘Women in Trade Initiative’ in order to increase the participation of Pakistani women in the international trade sector.

“This initiative is part of the United States’ commitment to the people of Pakistan to support women’s empowerment,” said Dr. Marilyn Wyatt, wife of U.S. Ambassador Cameron Munter, at the launch of the Women in Trade Initiative.

“By raising the role of women in the international trade sector, we can enable them to contribute not only to Pakistan’s economy, but to the overall development of the country,” she further said.

Under this initiative, USAID has arranged three-month internship for 17 female university graduates with well-known companies such as TARGET Sourcing Services Pakistan, TEXLYNX, NISHAT Group, and Li & Fung Pakistan. These women will gain skills in sourcing and marketing of products, product development and diversification, and supply chain management.

The international trade sector in Pakistan currently employs very few women in managerial positions.  A recent USAID-funded study has shown women comprise less than 10 percent of management and 20 percent of junior staff in trade companies. The Women in Trade initiative will work to set up linkages between international firms and local universities, so that more women have opportunities to explore careers in international trade.  The USAID-funded initiative will also help companies select the best-suited male and female university graduates for training and potential future recruitment.