Pakistan and Iran are progressing toward formalising a Free Trade Agreement, with the final text currently under internal review by Pakistani authorities. Official approval is expected soon.
The development was disclosed during a meeting between Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan, and Iranian Ambassador to Pakistan, Reza Amiri-Moghaddam. The discussion focused on strengthening bilateral trade and economic cooperation.
Jam Kamal confirmed that the Free Trade Agreement signed in Islamabad is undergoing review and will soon be presented for official approval. He highlighted ongoing trade initiatives and upcoming opportunities to expand economic ties between the two countries.
Ambassador Amiri welcomed the progress and noted the resumption of flights between Quetta and Zahedan, enhancing connectivity for trade and people. He also highlighted prior trade agreements, including imports of rice, meat, maize, and animal feed. While Iran has completed rice imports, it is now ready to purchase maize and animal feed.
The commerce minister invited Iranian companies and state-owned organisations to participate in the upcoming FoodAg exhibition in Karachi from November 25 to 27, 2025. This platform will encourage investment, joint ventures, and trade in the agri-food sector.
Jam Kamal also suggested high-level visits between officials from Balochistan and Zahedan to facilitate cross-border trade. Ministers from Pakistan’s maritime, railways, and communications sectors may visit Iran to explore cooperation opportunities.
Both nations reaffirmed their shared vision of achieving US$10 billion in annual bilateral trade by 2028. They expressed satisfaction over the 22nd Session of the Pak-Iran Joint Economic Commission held in Tehran in September 2025.
The minister emphasised resolving operational challenges for Iranian trucks entering Pakistan. He also called for reactivating the Pakistan-Iran Joint Business Council and expanding joint border markets. Non-tariff barriers, particularly in plant protection and quarantine, were highlighted as areas requiring closer cooperation.
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The Free Trade Agreement is expected to strengthen trade, investment, and economic ties between Pakistan and Iran while benefiting businesses and border communities.
