Trade Ties
Pakistan and Tajikistan have underscored the necessity of launching direct flights between the two countries to facilitate trade, enhance economic cooperation, and strengthen bilateral relations.
This key issue was discussed during a meeting between Federal Minister for National Food Security & Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, and the Ambassador of Tajikistan to Pakistan.
During the meeting, Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain emphasized the long-standing and cordial relations between Pakistan and Tajikistan, highlighting the immense potential for increased trade and economic collaboration.
He stressed that establishing direct air connectivity would not only boost trade but also facilitate stronger business-to-business and people-to-people interactions.
The Tajik Ambassador expressed his country’s keen interest in utilizing Pakistan’s strategic ports, particularly Gwadar and Karachi, for trade and exports. He noted that improved logistical connectivity through these ports would significantly benefit Tajikistan’s exports and trade with regional and global markets.
However, he also pointed out existing logistical challenges that needed to be addressed. In response, Minister Hussain assured full cooperation from Pakistan in resolving these issues and enhancing trade infrastructure to facilitate smoother exchanges.
Additionally, Tajikistan has shown considerable interest in importing various Pakistani products, including agricultural commodities, food items, and industrial goods. To further explore business opportunities, the Tajik side proposed organizing a trade exhibition, which would provide a platform for entrepreneurs and investors from both nations to engage and identify potential areas of collaboration.
The discussions also touched upon the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between the two countries, as well as Pakistan’s potential sugar exports to Tajikistan.
Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to expanding trade and economic engagement, referencing previous agreements, including those reached during the 6th Session of the Pak-Tajik Joint Ministerial Commission (JMC) held in July 2019. At that session, both countries had agreed to form a Joint Working Group (JWG) to address trade and economic concerns.
Pakistan had earlier proposed holding a virtual JWG meeting in September 2024 to advance discussions on trade, agriculture, and investment opportunities.
However, no response had been received from Tajikistan regarding the proposed meeting. To ensure continuity and progress, Pakistan’s Ministry of National Food Security & Research has now suggested new dates for the JWG meeting in April 2025 and is awaiting an official response from Tajik authorities.
Moving forward, Pakistan’s Ministry of National Food Security & Research will work closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to reaffirm its proposal for the first JWG meeting on agriculture.
Furthermore, efforts will continue to explore Tajikistan’s interest in importing Pakistani sugar and other products, as well as to enhance trade relations between the two nations.
With both countries showing strong commitment to fostering economic ties, the establishment of direct flights and the resolution of logistical issues could mark a new chapter in Pakistan-Tajikistan trade relations, benefiting businesses and strengthening regional connectivity.
