The Ministry of Commerce has introduced a new merit-based policy for selecting Pakistani government employees for overseas trade missions.
The policy aims to make foreign appointments more transparent and ensure qualified staff represent Pakistan abroad.
Approved by the Secretary of Commerce on November 6, 2026, the rules cover three categories of employees: Commercial Assistants, Drivers and Messenger-cum-Drivers, and Security Guards.
The new system introduces competitive examinations, interviews, performance assessments and stricter eligibility requirements.
Written Exams Carry 60% Weightage
Commercial Assistants will be selected through written tests, skill assessments, interviews and performance evaluation reports.
The written examination will carry 60% weightage, while interviews will account for 30%. The remaining 10% will depend on employees’ performance reports.
The written and practical assessments will carry 100 marks. Candidates must secure at least 50% to qualify.
The Pakistan Institute of Trade and Development in Islamabad will conduct the examinations. Successful candidates will also complete four weeks of training before their overseas appointments.
The assessment will cover office procedures, accounting, English, communication skills, computer knowledge and international trade.
Five Years of Service Required
Drivers and Messenger-cum-Drivers will qualify through seniority and fitness assessments. Applicants must hold a valid driving licence that is at least five years old.
Their driving tests will include GPS and Google Maps usage. Security Guards will also undergo selection based on seniority and suitability.
Applicants must have completed at least five years of continuous service in the Ministry of Commerce. Employees returning from overseas postings must serve another two years at headquarters before applying again.
The policy also limits foreign postings to a normal tenure of three years. Employees who have completed two overseas postings or served six consecutive years at a mission will become ineligible.
Officials facing disciplinary proceedings, major penalties or unsatisfactory security clearance will also be excluded.
Selected employees must obtain security clearance and medical fitness certificates. They must also submit written undertakings against seeking foreign nationality, permanent settlement or asylum in their host countries.
The Ministry will advertise vacant positions and publish eligibility requirements to invite applications from qualifying employees.
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