ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan government has decided to send a high-level delegation to the United States to engage in negotiations aimed at enhancing bilateral trade relations and addressing concerns over recently imposed US tariffs on Pakistani imports.
The decision came on the instructions of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif during a review meeting held in Islamabad today. It focused on boosting national exports and discussing Washington’s new tariff measures.
The delegation will consist of key business leaders and prominent exporters, reflecting the government’s commitment to involving key stakeholders in shaping a mutually beneficial approach.
The delegation has been tasked with negotiating the newly imposed tariffs and formulating a long-term strategy to protect and grow Pakistan’s trade interests.
This move follows Washington’s announcement of a 29% tariff on Pakistani goods in retaliation to Pakistan’s 58% tariff on US products. As a result, Pakistani exports to the US will now face a combined tariff of 39%, consisting of a 10% baseline import duty and a 29% reciprocal tariff.
The US remains Pakistan’s largest single-country export market, with annual exports worth approximately $6 billion, mainly in textiles.
In response to President Donald Trump’s announcement, PM Shehbaz Sharif set up a 12-member steering committee to address the impact of the tariffs. Initial estimates suggest that these duties could cost Pakistan between $500 to $700 million.
The meeting, chaired by PM Shehbaz, included Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, several federal ministers, and senior officials, who were briefed on the findings of the steering committee and the potential impact of the new tariffs. Various alternative strategies were discussed during the session.
