Pakistan and the United States have reported significant progress in negotiations for a proposed reciprocal trade agreement. The latest development followed talks between Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan and US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker in Islamabad on Tuesday.
The meeting focused on advancing the trade deal, expanding market access and strengthening investment cooperation. Both sides also discussed agricultural exports, mineral development, technology and opportunities for businesses in both countries.
Pakistan-US Trade Agreement Talks Show Progress
Jam Kamal welcomed the US delegation and highlighted the importance of Pakistan’s longstanding economic partnership with Washington. He said both countries could expand bilateral trade through improved market access, stronger private-sector engagement and investment in emerging industries.
He also outlined Pakistan’s efforts to diversify export markets and build international commercial partnerships despite global and regional economic challenges. Greater economic cooperation, he added, could create business opportunities, improve industrial competitiveness and support sustainable growth.
During the meeting, both sides reviewed negotiations on the proposed reciprocal trade agreement and expressed their commitment to reaching a mutually beneficial outcome.
Commerce Secretary Jawad Paul briefed participants on the negotiations, reporting substantial progress on several important provisions. However, he noted that a few technical issues still required discussions with the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR).
Prime Minister’s Coordinator on Commerce and Industries Rana Ihsaan Afzal Khan and senior Commerce Ministry officials also attended the meeting.
Pakistan Seeks Better US Market Access for Mangoes and Dates
Agricultural trade featured prominently in the discussions, particularly opportunities to increase Pakistani exports to the American market. Pakistan highlighted mangoes and dates as products requiring progress on market access arrangements.
Jawad Paul urged officials to expedite visits by relevant US inspection teams for Pakistani mango exports. He also sought progress on the pending process for securing market access for Pakistani dates.
Greater access to the US market could benefit farmers, exporters and businesses, particularly in Balochistan. In response, the American delegation indicated its willingness to follow up with relevant US authorities.
Meanwhile, both sides explored opportunities to expand US agricultural exports to Pakistan, especially cotton and soybeans. Paul stressed that competitive pricing and trade financing would help facilitate increased imports.
The discussions also covered potential financing arrangements and stronger coordination with trade institutions and industry associations.
FoodAg 2026 to Connect Businesses and Investors
Jam Kamal encouraged American companies to explore investment opportunities in Pakistan’s agriculture and food-processing industries. He highlighted modern agricultural machinery, food-processing technologies, cold-chain infrastructure and improved farming practices as promising areas.
The minister also invited American businesses and agricultural organisations to participate in FoodAg 2026. The exhibition is scheduled to take place in Karachi from November 23 to 26.
The event is expected to provide a platform for connecting international buyers and investors with Pakistani agricultural and food-processing businesses. Baker welcomed discussions on agricultural trade and expressed interest in facilitating stronger links between American agricultural technology companies and Pakistani firms.
Balochistan’s Agriculture and Minerals Offer Investment Opportunities
The meeting also examined opportunities to develop Balochistan’s agricultural sector and increase the value of its products. Jam Kamal identified dates, olive oil and other agricultural goods as promising areas for processing and export development.
He said international cooperation could improve processing facilities, product quality, packaging and access to global markets. These efforts could also create opportunities for small businesses, farmers and women entrepreneurs.
Minerals and mining formed another key part of the discussions. Both sides explored potential investment, technical cooperation, skills development and responsible resource development.
The US delegation expressed continued interest in Pakistan’s mineral sector, including opportunities for American companies to contribute technical expertise, investment and commercial partnerships.
Jam Kamal also highlighted Hub’s industrial potential in Balochistan, citing its strategic proximity to Karachi. He encouraged further investment in manufacturing, industrial infrastructure and special economic zones while welcoming the existing presence of American companies in Pakistan.
Regional Trade Connectivity Also Discussed
The talks addressed challenges affecting Pakistan’s regional trade routes, particularly connections with Afghanistan and Central Asian markets. Jawad Paul highlighted disruptions to traditional land routes and their implications for trade.
He stressed that reliable regional connectivity, predictable trade arrangements and efficient logistics remain essential for export growth. These factors also help businesses maintain long-term commercial relationships across regional markets.
Jam Kamal reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening economic resilience, improving the business environment and expanding trade opportunities. Both sides emphasised continued institutional dialogue, stronger business-to-business engagement and practical cooperation.
Concluding the meeting, Baker welcomed the constructive discussions and reiterated Washington’s interest in expanding economic engagement with Pakistan. Both sides agreed to maintain close coordination on trade negotiations, market access issues and further opportunities for mutually beneficial cooperation.
Although the negotiations have advanced on several provisions, technical discussions remain outstanding. Their resolution will be important as Pakistan and the United States work towards a reciprocal trade agreement.
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