In a strategic move aimed at addressing the newly imposed tariffs by the US, Pakistan has decided to send a high-level delegation to the United States. The delegation will be led by prominent business figures and exporters and is expected to focus on strengthening bilateral trade relations between the two countries and discussing the recent economic challenges posed by the US administration’s new trade policies.
The US, under President Donald Trump’s administration, recently announced a set of tariffs that have created significant concern for countries across the globe, including Pakistan. Notably, a 29% reciprocal tariff has been imposed on Pakistani imports, a move that directly impacts the nation’s trade balance and has caused alarm within Pakistani business circles. This tariff comes as part of a broader trade war initiated by the Trump administration, which includes harsh tariffs on goods from several countries such as China, Bangladesh, Vietnam, and Cambodia, with rates ranging from 34% to 49%.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in a statement issued by the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), underscored the longstanding nature of US-Pakistan trade relations and reiterated the government’s commitment to further strengthening these ties. He chaired a review meeting in Islamabad with key officials, where the new tariffs were discussed in detail. During the meeting, the Steering Committee and Working Group on the tariffs presented reports outlining the current trade situation and proposed future actions.
The delegation’s mission is twofold: first, to promote Pakistan’s exports by engaging in direct discussions with US trade representatives, and second, to negotiate more favorable terms for Pakistan amid the rising global trade tensions. The Pakistani government has already initiated consultations with the US Embassy in Islamabad and remains in constant contact with US officials to resolve the matter.
PM Sharif highlighted the importance of involving key business figures and exporters in the process, recognizing that their expertise is vital to negotiating a mutually beneficial outcome for both countries. The government plans to leverage this delegation to not only address the new tariffs but also to lay the groundwork for long-term, sustainable trade relations that benefit both nations.
During the meeting, the prime minister stressed that Pakistan is keen on exploring alternative routes to mitigate the impact of the tariffs and to open new avenues for trade. By strengthening ties with the US, Pakistan aims to reduce the adverse effects of these tariffs on key sectors such as textiles, which form a major part of Pakistan’s export economy.
Additionally, this move comes at a time when the global trade landscape is shifting, with many countries facing challenges from the ongoing trade wars and protectionist policies. Pakistan’s government is exploring a variety of diplomatic and trade strategies to ensure its economic interests are safeguarded. With this delegation, Pakistan seeks to not only address the immediate issue of tariffs but also enhance its trade relations with the US in the years ahead.
This high-level diplomatic initiative reflects Pakistan’s proactive stance in managing its trade relationships and positioning itself as a strong and reliable trading partner in the global market.
