KCCI, PBC Dubai sign MoU to boost trade, investment links

KARACHI: The Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) and the Pakistan Business Council (PBC) Dubai signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on Monday aimed at fostering bilateral cooperation in trade, investment and economic collaboration by establishing strategic linkages between the business communities of Karachi and Dubai.

The MoU was formally signed by KCCI President Muhammad Jawed Bilwani and PBC Dubai Chairperson Shabbir Merchant during a high-level meeting held at the KCCI premises.Speaking on the occasion, Bilwani underscored the importance of strengthening bilateral economic ties and highlighted the key features of the agreement. “This partnership marks a strategic effort to deepen trade and investment cooperation through practical initiatives such as the exchange of trade delegations, joint participation in international exhibitions and trade fairs, and the co-organisation of business seminars, workshops and networking forums,” he said.

He added that both organisations had agreed to share timely and relevant information regarding trade policies, regulatory frameworks and business practices in their respective regions. Furthermore, the agreement outlines mutual support for facilitating business visa processes, providing logistical assistance to visiting trade delegations, and promoting B2B interactions through digital platforms.

Bilwani also commended PBC Dubai’s initiative of launching a dedicated website and mobile application to support B2B matchmaking, enabling businesses to identify potential partners more efficiently. “Such tools are essential for enhancing engagement between entrepreneurs and investors in both markets,” he noted.

Shabbir Merchant emphasised the significance of the agreement for both countries’ business communities, saying that the MoU would not only act as a bridge between Karachi and Dubai but also create a platform for sustainable economic growth. “It will facilitate meaningful business linkages, remove barriers, and ease the way for entrepreneurs and investors on both sides,” he added.

The PBC Dubai chairperson also expressed confidence that the partnership would enable Pakistani businesses to access the UAE market more effectively and benefit from Dubai’s status as a global trade and investment hub. “Through enhanced cooperation and knowledge sharing, we can build resilient and mutually beneficial trade networks,” he remarked.

Chairperson of the Special Committee to Implement MoUs Junaid Esmail Makda elaborated on the conflict resolution mechanisms included in the agreement. “The MoU provides a framework for the peaceful resolution of business disputes through mediation and arbitration, aligned with international best practices. This is crucial for building trust among businesses,” he explained. He further noted that the MoU encourages the governments of Pakistan and the UAE to support the efforts of both organisations by adopting facilitative policies, recognising the chambers’ roles in diplomatic and economic engagement, and assisting with policy advocacy to improve the overall ease of doing business.

PBC Dubai Executive Advisor Mustafa Hemani praised the KCCI’s proactive approach and coordination, particularly the leadership of Chairperson BMG Zubair Motiwala and Junaid Makda, in achieving this important milestone. “The signing of this MoU is a testament to the spirit of collaboration and shared vision between our institutions. We believe it will pave the way for long-term economic cooperation,” he said.

As part of the implementation strategy, both parties have agreed to hold monthly virtual meetings to monitor progress, review initiatives and assess outcomes. Focal persons will be appointed from each side to ensure smooth coordination, timely communication and effective follow-through on agreed objectives.