Pakistan and the United States are pursuing a revised trade agreement to widen market access and attract investment. Negotiators have advanced several provisions, although technical issues remain unresolved.
The talks come as bilateral goods and services trade reached $11.5 billion in 2025, rising 14%, or $1.4 billion.
Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has led negotiating rounds in Washington, alongside virtual discussions, Business Recorder reported, citing informed sources.
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Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan reviewed progress with US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker in Islamabad on Tuesday, October 20. Prime Minister’s commerce coordinator Rana Ihsaan Afzal Khan, Commerce Secretary Jawad Paul and senior ministry officials attended.
Paul said several important provisions had progressed substantially. Remaining technical points require discussions with the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR). Both sides committed to continuing negotiations.
US goods exports rise sharply
USTR figures show goods trade reached $8.5 billion in 2025. American exports to Pakistan climbed 48.4% to $3.1 billion, while imports from Pakistan increased 5.9% to $5.4 billion.
The US goods deficit consequently narrowed 23.9%, or $719 million, to $2.3 billion.
Services trade totalled $2.9 billion. US services exports rose 6.6% to $1.8 billion, while imports from Pakistan fell 1.7% to $1.1 billion. Washington’s services surplus increased 22% to $731 million.
Mangoes, dates and agricultural investment
Pakistan sought faster visits by US inspection teams for mango exports and progress on pending market access for dates. Paul said improved access would particularly benefit Balochistan’s growers and businesses. The American delegation offered to follow up with relevant authorities.
Discussions also covered US cotton and soybean exports, competitive pricing, import financing and coordination with trade institutions and industry associations.
Kamal invited investment in agriculture, livestock, modern machinery, food-processing technology, cold-chain infrastructure and improved farming practices. Baker supported closer links between American agricultural technology companies and Pakistani businesses.
He also invited US participation in FoodAg 2026, scheduled for November 23–26 in Karachi. Pakistan’s foreign ministry identifies Karachi Expo Centre as the venue for the exhibition’s fourth edition.
Balochistan investment and regional trade
Kamal highlighted Balochistan’s dates and olive oil, seeking better processing, quality, packaging and export access for farmers, small businesses and women entrepreneurs.
Both delegations explored mineral exploration, mining investment, technical cooperation, skills development and responsible resource development. US representatives expressed interest in expertise, investment and commercial partnerships.
Kamal highlighted Hub’s proximity to Karachi and opportunities in manufacturing, industrial infrastructure and special economic zones. He welcomed existing American investors and encouraged further participation.
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Paul raised disruptions to land routes linking Pakistan with Afghanistan and Central Asia. He stressed reliable connectivity, predictable trading arrangements and efficient logistics.
Kamal linked deeper US ties and export diversification with competitiveness, resilience, a better business environment and sustainable growth. Baker reaffirmed interest in trade, agriculture, technology and investment.
Both sides agreed to coordinate on negotiations, market access, institutional dialogue and business contacts, pursuing shared opportunities and mutual respect.
