Pakistan and the United States have made progress in negotiations on a proposed bilateral trade agreement, with further discussions needed on some technical provisions, Pakistan’s Commerce Division said following a meeting between Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan and US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker.
The October 20 meeting in Islamabad focused on expanding bilateral trade, investment and economic cooperation. Prime Minister’s Coordinator for Commerce and Industry Rana Ihsan Afzal Khan and Commerce Secretary Jawad Paul also attended.
Paul said negotiations had advanced, although some provisions of the proposed agreement still required further engagement with the Office of the United States Trade Representative. The government has not announced a final agreement.
Pakistan Seeks US Market Access for Mangoes and Dates
Improving access for Pakistani agricultural products was a key part of the discussions, particularly exports of mangoes and dates.
Pakistani officials called for US inspection teams to accelerate their visits required for mango exports. They also highlighted the potential benefits of opening the American market to dates produced in Balochistan, which could create opportunities for local farmers and exporters.
The US delegation said it would engage with the relevant authorities on market-access issues affecting Pakistani agricultural products.
The two sides also discussed increasing Pakistan’s imports of US cotton and soybeans, as well as opportunities for trade financing.
US Companies Invited to Invest in Agriculture
Jam Kamal invited American companies to explore investment opportunities in Pakistan’s agriculture and industrial sectors, pointing to the potential for modern farming technologies, food processing and cold-chain infrastructure.
He also invited US businesses to participate in FoodAg 2026, scheduled to take place in Karachi from November 23 to 26.
The minister highlighted opportunities to add value to agricultural products in Balochistan, particularly dates and olive oil. Investment in processing and storage facilities could help develop higher-value products and strengthen the agricultural supply chain.
Minerals and mining were also on the agenda, alongside technical cooperation and workforce development. The US delegation expressed interest in expanding investment and technical collaboration in Pakistan’s mineral sector.
Jam Kamal identified Hub in Balochistan as a potential location for industrial investment, manufacturing and special economic zones.
The meeting also covered regional trade links and difficulties affecting overland trade routes to Afghanistan and Central Asian markets. Paul stressed the importance of reliable trade corridors and efficient logistics for expanding exports.
Baker expressed interest in expanding US cooperation with Pakistan in trade, agriculture, technology and investment. The meeting concluded with both sides agreeing to advance trade negotiations, address market-access barriers and strengthen institutional engagement. While the discussions indicate progress on the proposed bilateral trade agreement, its final terms remain subject to further negotiations.
