The 12th WEXNET 2025, the largest women entrepreneurs’ exhibition in Pakistan, was successfully held at the Expo Center, Lahore, from January 10–12, 2025. Organized by the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), the event celebrated the remarkable contributions of women entrepreneurs and professionals across Pakistan.
This three-day exhibition offered a blend of engaging activities, including shopping opportunities, a culinary competition, and a dedicated play area for children. Alongside these attractions, the event featured supplementary programs designed to empower women entrepreneurs by enhancing their skills and helping them tap into export market opportunities.
Inauguration And Key Highlights
The event was formally inaugurated by Jawad Paul Khuwaja, Federal Secretary of Commerce, who reaffirmed the government’s commitment to promoting women entrepreneurs at both national and international levels. The opening ceremony was followed by a vibrant cultural performance, setting an energetic tone for the event.
Prominent designers such as Nilofer Shahid, Ali Xeeshan, Kuki Concepts, and Hina Tayyaba, Principal of PIFD Lahore, added glamour to the occasion. The exhibition also saw participation from government officials and a wide array of women entrepreneurs from various industries.
Stakeholder Engagement And Initiatives
At WEXNET 2025, Sheryar Taj, Secretary TDAP, held meetings with various stakeholders to explore strategies for boosting exports, empowering women entrepreneurs, fostering inter-provincial collaboration, and creating a robust policy framework to support women-led businesses both domestically and internationally.
TDAP also hosted the 33rd session of the National Exporters Training Program (NETP) for women exporters and manufacturers on the first day. More than 60 women entrepreneurs benefited from this session, expressing interest in participating in similar trade fairs and webinars in the future.
On the third day, a training session on E-Commerce and Digital Marketing was conducted, led by Adil Mukhtar, Deputy Director of TDAP, and Naila Yaqoob from Circle Women Association. These sessions equipped participants with essential tools to succeed in the digital era.
Networking, Knowledge Sharing, And Business Growth
WEXNET 2025 provided a platform for women entrepreneurs to network, share knowledge, and build meaningful partnerships through workshops, seminars, and B2B meetings. The exhibition highlighted unique products and inspiring stories of resilience, with a particular focus on textiles, handicrafts, and agribusiness.
Families and the general public who visited the event were treated to a vibrant atmosphere, exploring high-quality, locally crafted products that reflected the creativity and talent of Pakistan’s women entrepreneurs.
A Vision For An Inclusive Future
WEXNET 2025 not only showcased the remarkable entrepreneurial spirit of Pakistan’s women but also emphasized their potential to drive economic growth and contribute to the nation’s social and cultural development. The event reinforced a compelling vision for a more inclusive and prosperous future for Pakistan, where women entrepreneurs play a pivotal role in shaping the country’s progress.
