Pakistan and Iran have reaffirmed their commitment to an ambitious shared vision of elevating their annual bilateral trade to US$10 billion by 2028, signaling a major push to deepen economic ties between the neighboring countries. The renewed pledge came during a comprehensive meeting between Federal Minister for Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan, and Iranian Ambassador to Pakistan, Reza Amiri-Moghaddam.
According to an official statement, the discussion centered on exploring new avenues for strengthening commercial collaboration and economic partnership. Both dignitaries reviewed progress on existing trade agreements, promoting investment opportunities, and facilitating cross-border economic initiatives.
Ambassador Amiri-Moghaddam highlighted recent advancements in bilateral commerce, noting that Iran had successfully completed the import of 400,000 tons of rice from Pakistan. He further indicated that Tehran is prepared to proceed with the importation of animal feed and maize under current pacts.
Minister Jam Kamal appreciated Iran’s positive reception of Pakistan’s recent amendments to the barter trade mechanism, which have streamlined business operations between the two nations. He also informed the ambassador that the Pakistan-Iran Free Trade Agreement (FTA), previously signed in Islamabad, is currently undergoing an internal review and will soon be presented for official approval.
To bolster regional connectivity and commerce, the commerce minister proposed a series of high-level visits. These include delegations led by the Chief Minister of Balochistan and the Governor of Zahedan to facilitate cross-border exchange and improve the livelihoods of border communities. He also suggested that Pakistani ministers from the maritime, railways, and communications sectors visit Iran to explore sectoral cooperation.
The facilitation of trade at border crossings was a key point of discussion. The minister welcomed the reactivation of the Mand-Pishin Joint Border Market in July 2025 and pressed for the expedited operationalization of the remaining two border markets at Chegdi-Kouhak and Gabd-Reemdan. Efforts to resolve operational issues faced by Iranian trucks entering Pakistan were also underlined.
In a move to foster business-to-business engagement, Minister Jam Kamal called for the reactivation of the Pakistan-Iran Joint Business Council. He extended an invitation to Iranian companies and state-owned organizations to participate in the upcoming FoodAg Exhibition, scheduled from November 25 to 27, 2025, at the Karachi Expo Centre, to expand collaboration in the agri-food sector.
The meeting concluded with both sides reiterating their dedication to expanding bilateral investment and economic partnership, rooted in deep-seated brotherly ties based on a shared history and culture.