ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and China have reviewed progress on around 700 tariff and non-tariff items under the third phase of the China-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement (CPFTA), as both sides stepped up efforts to deepen bilateral trade cooperation.
The discussions took place during a meeting between Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan, and Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong in Islamabad, according to officials familiar with the talks.
Officials said the meeting focused on expanding market access for Pakistani products, reducing regulatory barriers and aligning trade terms with those offered to regional partners such as ASEAN countries and Bangladesh.
A key proposal discussed was the establishment of a dedicated Green Channel at the Sust-Khunjerab border, aimed at speeding up customs clearance and improving logistics for perishable and agricultural exports.
Pakistan’s delegation included senior representatives from the Ministry of Commerce, the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Minister Jam Kamal Khan said Pakistan was seeking to boost exports through both government-to-government and business-to-business engagement.
Chinese officials highlighted opportunities for greater agricultural trade and outlined China’s import compliance framework, while both sides agreed to continue technical-level consultations to finalise protocols.
Trade data reviewed during the meeting showed Pakistan’s exports to China reached about $2.7 billion in FY2024-25, while imports stood at approximately $17 billion, underscoring the need for diversification and value-added exports.
Officials noted Pakistan’s potential in processed foods, textiles, minerals and meat products, with an emphasis on shifting from raw material exports to higher-value manufactured goods.
The meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to advancing CPFTA negotiations and strengthening long-term economic cooperation.
