The second SAARC business leaders conclave has adopted a 13-point policy reform agenda to achieve intra-regional trade of $20 billion by 2010.
Among the reforms mentioned are implementation of SAFTA, reduction of sensitive lists, removal of non-tariff barriers and regularisation and liberalisation of trade in services.
Adopting a regional protocol to promote and protect intra-regional investments and joint ventures in South Asia was also proposed.
To enhance trade and commerce among SAARC nations, the adoption of an open sky policy was suggested to improve air connectivity.
Giving priority berthing to shipping vessels owned by SAARC countries at each other's ports would also help in achieving this objective, participants said.
The 13-point agenda pointed to the need for implementation of a Regional Motor Vehicle Transport Agreement and world-class infrastructure at land-border ports.
It also suggested allowing broadcasting of TV channels of all SAARC countries in the entire region to promote trade and investment.