Tajik delegation explores trade opportunities with Pakistan and China

LAHORE: A five-member delegation from Tajikistan visited the Pakistan-China Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCJCCI) to explore potential sectors for trade and investment among Pakistan, China and Tajikistan.

The meeting, attended by PCJCCI President Nazir Hussain, Senior Vice President Mansoor Saeed Sheikh, and Vice President Zafar Iqbal, was led by Daler Qodiri, chairman of the board of directors at Fayz Technology (Group of Companies).

In his welcome address, Nazir Hussain highlighted that enhancing bilateral trade can drive economic development in Pakistan and support Beijing's wider goal of regional stability. He highlighted Pakistan’s intent to establish a direct trade route with Tajikistan and access Central Asia through China and Afghanistan. Hussain noted that China is currently Tajikistan’s largest investor and key trading partner, while Tajikistan, a committed participant in the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), requires significant infrastructure investment due to its challenging terrain. Such developments would foster economic integration and boost trade.

Qodiri said that Pakistan’s exports to Tajikistan have grown at an annual rate of 4.88 per cent over the last five years, increasing from $15.8 million in 2017 to $20.1 million in 2022.

He further added that China-Tajikistan trade volume reached $1.68 billion in 2019, reflecting an 11.21 per cent increase from the previous year. China exported $1.59 billion to Tajikistan, up 11.27per cent, while Tajikistan’s exports to China rose by 10.12per cent, totaling $85 million. Despite a decline in 2020 due to COVID-19, bilateral trade rebounded in early 2021 with a year-on-year growth of 44.6 per cent.

Mansoor Sheikh pointed out that bilateral trade between Pakistan and Tajikistan is mutually beneficial, as both countries are rich in natural resources.