A high-level meeting chaired by Minister for Economic Affairs Senator Ahad Cheema was held in Islamabad today to discuss reforms in strengthening Pakistan's construction sector.

The meeting also exchanged views on improving project delivery and addressing key issues faced by the construction industry.

It discussed the proposed Construction Industry Development Authority (CIDA) Bill.

During the meeting, Ahad Cheema emphasized that the Bill requires further detailed consideration.

He said there is also need to take up the question of establishing a single body for the construction sector or two separate entities, one to regulate the sector and another to promote the construction industry and handle related matters.

He asked the relevant ministries and representatives of the Constructors Association of Pakistan to further hold consultations on the proposed institutional structure.

The Minister for Economic Affairs also directed the Pakistan Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) to begin work on introducing at least three-year or more defect liability period for major projects, with the measure to be extended to smaller projects in phases.