In a significant development for Pakistan’s export sector, the government has successfully negotiated a reduction in the US reciprocal tariff from 29% to 19%, marking the lowest rate in the region. This tariff adjustment offers Pakistan a valuable opportunity to increase its exports to the United States, enhancing the country’s competitive position in the global market.
The breakthrough was announced during a high-level meeting on US Reciprocal Tariffs, chaired by Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan. The session included key government officials such as Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production Haroon Akhtar Khan, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Commerce Rana Ihsaan Afzal, Secretary Commerce Jawad Paul, and over 30 top exporters and representatives from sectors including apparel, textiles, rice, salt, surgical goods, sports goods, electronics, agriculture, and leather.
Industry leaders hailed the government’s achievement as one of Pakistan’s most strategic trade wins in recent years, positioning the country ahead of its regional competitors.
Highlighting the significance of the tariff reduction, Jam Kamal Khan emphasised that exporters’ feedback underscores the need for a comprehensive strategy to fully capitalise on this opportunity. He acknowledged the collaborative efforts of the Finance Ministry, the Commerce Secretary, and private sector stakeholders in shaping the roadmap to boost exports.
Special Assistant Haroon Akhtar Khan highlighted Pakistan’s regional advantage and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting industries in leveraging new business prospects created by the tariff cut.
While praising the government’s trade diplomacy efforts, industry representatives called for consistent and favourable policies to reduce manufacturing costs and improve access to essential inputs, which are critical for maximising export potential.
The Commerce Minister assured that the government remains dedicated to export-driven policies, offering both immediate support and long-term strategic plans. He added that all recommendations from exporters would be forwarded to the Prime Minister for consideration, signalling a collaborative approach to policy making.
The meeting concluded with a unified resolve to strengthen Pakistan’s export presence in the US market, transforming this tariff reduction into a sustained advantage for the country’s socio-economic growth.
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