ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s exporters are set to secure a significant advantage in the US market after the government successfully negotiated a cut in reciprocal tariffs from 29% to 19%. This marks the lowest tariff rate in the region, creating a major opening to boost exports to the United States.
The development was reviewed in a meeting on US Reciprocal Tariffs, chaired by Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan.
The session was attended by 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, senior officials from the Commerce and Industries & Production Divisions, and over 30 leading exporters and SMEs representing apparel and textiles, rice, salt, surgical instruments, sports goods, electronics, food and agriculture, leather, and other sectors.
Business Leaders Urge Government to Capitalize on Opportunity
Industry representatives hailed the tariff cut as one of Pakistan’s most notable trade wins in recent years, particularly when compared to regional competitors.
Minister Jam Kamal Khan noted that, in line with the Prime Minister’s directives, input from exporters will shape the next steps to fully exploit this opportunity. He acknowledged the role of the Finance Minister, Commerce Ministry, and private sector stakeholders in developing the strategy that led to this success.
SAPM Haroon Akhtar underscored Pakistan’s improved position in the region and reiterated the government’s commitment to helping industries tap into the new trade potential.
Exporters appreciated the government’s trade diplomacy and called for consistent policy support, lower production costs, and reliable access to essential raw materials to strengthen competitiveness.
The Commerce Minister reaffirmed the government’s focus on an export-led growth model, combining immediate relief measures with long-term strategies. He assured that all private sector recommendations would be forwarded to the Prime Minister. The meeting ended with a shared resolve to expand Pakistan’s footprint in the US market, turning this breakthrough into a sustainable driver for socio-economic progress.
Focus on Balochistan’s Economic Potential
Speaking to the media after a parliamentary Standing Committee on Commerce meeting, Jam Kamal Khan said the business community had been briefed on opportunities arising from the new tariff structure. He highlighted that Balochistan, with its rich natural resources, could significantly benefit, improving the province’s financial outlook.
On a question about the declaration of BLA and Majeed Brigade as terrorist organizations, the minister noted that Pakistan had identified these groups years ago, and the global community is now recognizing Pakistan’s stance on India’s destabilizing role in Balochistan.
He stressed that political misrepresentation had hindered Balochistan’s development, adding that terrorism is no solution to the province’s issues. “Federal institutions are committed to giving Balochistan’s youth a political role and making them partners in employment, the economy, and business,” he said.