Pakistan and Japan have agreed to deepen industrial cooperation, particularly in the automotive and information technology sectors, during a high-level meeting in Tokyo.
Special Assistant to the Prime Minister on Industries and Production, Haroon Akhtar Khan, and Pakistan’s Ambassador to Japan, Abdul Hameed, met with MATSUO Takehiko, Vice-Minister for International Affairs at Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI).
Discussions centred on Pakistan’s new industrial policy, which aims to expand exports, reduce tariffs, simplify regulations, and attract foreign investment in line with the Prime Minister’s vision of export-led growth and a 6–7% GDP target. Japan acknowledged Pakistan’s young population, market potential, and the presence of over 70 Japanese companies already operating in the country.
The Japanese side highlighted its interest in diversifying markets amid global trade risks and stressed the need for regulatory clarity and targeted incentives for automakers to expand exports from Pakistan. Industry trends such as the Japanese auto sector’s focus on biofuels, led by Toyota and Suzuki, were also reviewed.
Both sides examined Pakistan’s Auto Industry Development Policy, emphasising a shift from punitive measures to investment-friendly incentives, alongside opportunities in automotive, textiles, biofuels, and regulatory standardisation. The meeting also touched on special economic zones, investment facilitation, and prospects for a Pakistan–Japan business dialogue.
It was agreed to maintain close coordination for timely follow-ups, considering Japan’s industry timelines, with the shared goal of achieving concrete outcomes that further strengthen bilateral economic relations.
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