In a major step to expand Pakistan’s trade footprint, Pakistan Mart in Dubai is set to become a flagship platform for promoting Made-in-Pakistan products across global markets. Spearheaded by the National Logistics Corporation (NLC) in collaboration with the UAE’s DP World, the project is being developed near Jebel Ali, Dubai’s central commercial hub.
Strategic Export Hub Backed by UAE Collaboration
Pakistan Mart in Dubai will provide a state-of-the-art, zero-construction-cost commercial space for Pakistani exporters. Backed by DP World’s infrastructure and logistical expertise, the facility will include modern warehouses, showrooms, retail shops, and e-commerce fulfilment centres. The goal is to create a one-stop hub for showcasing Pakistani goods to buyers in the Middle East, Africa, South America, and beyond.
The project was recently presented to Federal Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan by a delegation led by NLC’s Director General and DP World Vice Chairman Fakhr Alam. Government officials, including the Prime Minister’s Coordinator Rana Ihsaan Afzal and Executive Director General Muhammad Ashraf from the Ministry of Commerce, also participated.
]Game-Changer for Export-Led Growth
Terming it a “game changer”, Commerce Minister Jam Kamal stated that Pakistan Mart in Dubai will strengthen the country’s global trade visibility by enabling direct access to overseas buyers. He emphasised that key sectors such as textiles, surgical instruments, sports goods, food items, dairy, and nutraceuticals stand to benefit significantly.
He also highlighted the importance of supporting e-commerce, warehousing, and digital logistics infrastructure to help exporters, especially small and medium enterprises (SMEs), reach international markets more efficiently.
SMEs to Gain Global Access Without Middlemen
According to DG NLC Major General Farrukh Shehzad, Pakistan Mart in Dubai will eliminate intermediaries and provide SMEs with direct market access. The facility is designed to boost the visibility of Pakistani products and enhance their competitiveness in global trade.
He noted that many SMEs struggle with logistical barriers and commission costs, and Pakistan Mart in Dubai addresses these issues by offering a modern, cost-effective platform aligned with global buyer expectations.
Support from Chambers and the Business Community
The Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) has expressed full support. LCCI President Mian Abuzar Shad called the initiative “much-needed” for enabling exporters with limited resources to showcase their products internationally. He noted that the project could serve as a global launchpad for Pakistani SMEs and play a key role in improving the country’s image and economic resilience.
LCCI also plans to organise awareness sessions in partnership with NLC to help exporters understand the registration process and the benefits of participating in Pakistan Mart in Dubai.
Bilateral Trade Already on the Rise
The announcement follows a positive trend in Pakistan-UAE trade. Exports to the UAE increased by 1.87% in FY25, reaching $2.121 billion, while imports rose by over 25%. Major exports included rice, meat, garments, mangoes, and guavas, products expected to gain even greater traction through Pakistan Mart in Dubai.
The UAE remains one of Pakistan’s largest trade and remittance partners, and the strong economic ties between the two countries provide a natural foundation for the project’s success.
A Landmark for Trade, Diplomacy, and Branding
More than just a retail space, Pakistan Mart in Dubai is being positioned as a symbol of economic diplomacy, trade facilitation, and national branding. It is expected to contribute to export diversification, boost foreign exchange reserves, and strengthen Pakistan’s presence in international markets.
By streamlining trade access, building global buyer confidence, and amplifying the Made-in-Pakistan brand, Pakistan Mart in Dubai is well on its way to becoming a transformative force in the country’s export strategy.
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