KUALA LUMPUR, 26 February 2025 – Pakistan and Uzbekistan have taken a significant step toward strengthening their bilateral trade relations, setting an ambitious goal to quadruple their annual trade volume. The move aims to foster economic growth, investment opportunities, and regional connectivity between the two nations, both of which play vital roles in Central and South Asian trade networks.

A Bold Vision for Economic Expansion

The decision was announced during the Pakistan-Uzbekistan Business Forum, where high-level delegations from both countries convened to discuss economic cooperation, trade agreements, and investment incentives.

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing trade ties, with a strong focus on agriculture, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and infrastructure development.

“We envision a future where Pakistan and Uzbekistan become strategic trade partners,” stated Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. “By leveraging our geographic positioning and trade corridors, we can unlock immense economic potential.”

Key Areas of Growth and Investment

The trade enhancement plan will focus on:

• Agriculture and Food Security: Strengthening exports of wheat, rice, and fresh produce.
• Textiles and Garments: Encouraging textile sector investments and reducing tariffs.
• Energy and Infrastructure: Exploring renewable energy projects and logistics development.
• Pharmaceuticals: Expanding cross-border pharmaceutical exports and research collaboration.

Trade Route Expansion: A New Silk Road – Pakistan and Uzbekistan

A major component of the initiative is enhancing regional connectivity through expanded trade routes and logistics corridors. Both nations are working to:

• Improve rail and road connectivity via Afghanistan.
• Boost trade through Gwadar and Karachi ports.
• Strengthen Uzbekistan’s access to Pakistan’s sea routes for global trade expansion.

Strategic Benefits and Regional Impact

The proposed four-fold trade increase is expected to benefit regional economies, create new job opportunities, and encourage foreign investment. Experts predict that this partnership could strengthen Pakistan’s role as a gateway for Central Asian economies while boosting Uzbekistan’s global trade footprint.

“This is a win-win for both countries,” said Dr. Farid Alam, an international trade expert. “By diversifying their trade portfolios and integrating regional supply chains, Pakistan and Uzbekistan can become significant economic players in the region.”

What Lies Ahead for Pakistan and Uzbekistan

Pakistan and Uzbekistan have pledged to streamline trade agreements, reduce bureaucratic hurdles, and facilitate ease of doing business. The next phase will involve diplomatic talks, joint trade commissions, and private sector collaboration to implement the ambitious trade expansion plan.

With both nations committed to achieving this economic milestone, all eyes are on how this strategic partnership will shape the future of trade in South and Central Asia.

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