Muhammad Irfanullah | August 5, 2026

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan and Iran have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding bilateral trade to $10 billion, marking a significant step toward strengthening economic ties between the neighboring countries. The announcement came during the 10th Pakistan-Iran Joint Trade Committee (JTC) meeting held in Islamabad.

Senior government officials and business leaders from both countries participated in the meeting, focusing on enhancing trade, investment, border connectivity, and long-term economic cooperation.

High-Level Trade Talks Begin

The meeting was co-chaired by Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan, and Iran’s Minister of Industry, Mine and Trade, Dr. Mohammad Atabak.

A 16-member business delegation from the Iran Chamber of Commerce also arrived in Pakistan, representing various industrial and commercial sectors to explore new investment and trade opportunities.

Focus on Expanding Bilateral Trade

During the discussions, officials reviewed measures to strengthen bilateral trade, improve customs procedures, enhance banking cooperation, and facilitate cross-border commercial activities.

Both sides also discussed progress on a Pakistan-Iran Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and emphasized the importance of finalizing the agreement at the earliest opportunity to unlock greater economic potential.

Commitment to Stronger Economic Partnership

Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan said that the long-standing brotherly relations between Pakistan and Iran should be transformed into a stronger economic partnership.

He noted that both countries possess significant untapped trade potential and stressed that governments must create a business-friendly environment to encourage greater private-sector participation.

Improving Border Trade and Logistics

The Pakistani side highlighted the need to remove obstacles affecting border logistics, customs clearance, and the movement of goods.

Officials also discussed establishing additional border markets and introducing modern electronic customs systems to make trade faster, more efficient, and transparent.

Free Trade Agreement a Key Priority

Pakistan reiterated its commitment to completing the proposed Free Trade Agreement, describing it as a major milestone that could significantly increase bilateral trade volumes and strengthen long-term commercial cooperation.

Officials expressed hope that the Joint Trade Committee would develop a practical roadmap for expanding economic relations.

Iran Calls Pakistan a Strategic Trade Partner

Iranian Minister Dr. Mohammad Atabak described Pakistan as one of Iran’s most important long-term trading partners.

He said both countries have substantial opportunities for cooperation in trade, industry, and investment, and emphasized the need to fully utilize those opportunities.

Cooperation in Ports and Energy

The Iranian delegation also expressed interest in increasing regional trade through Karachi and Gwadar ports.

Both sides discussed expanding cooperation in the energy sector, particularly electricity trade, logistics, and regional connectivity projects that could generate new economic opportunities.

Expanding Business-to-Business Relations

Government officials and business representatives also explored ways to strengthen private-sector collaboration through increased commercial exchanges and investment partnerships.

Both countries expressed confidence that continued cooperation would help expand bilateral trade, stimulate economic growth, and open new opportunities for businesses on both sides of the border.