Malaysia expresses interest in investment opportunities

Business Recorder reported that Malaysia is keen on new trade and investment avenues with Pakistan, a message delivered at the 59th Annual General Meeting of the Pakistan Soap Manufacturers Association. Mohd. Yunus Ibrahim, Consul General of Malaysia, said cooperation between suppliers in Malaysia and manufacturers in Pakistan could deepen, and pointed to palm-based raw materials as an area for growth. He hoped the existing trade relationship would keep expanding, with business-to-business cooperation opening doors for enterprises in both countries. Syofian, Consul for Economic Affairs of Indonesia, attended as a Guest of Honour.

Usman Ahmed, who heads the association for 2026-28, said the soap sector supports hygiene needs, manufacturing, jobs, trade and government revenue while working under strain. He listed pressures from global raw material prices, exchange rate moves, energy and utility bills, financing costs, taxation and regulatory compliance. Ahmed stressed reliance on imported palm-based and fatty inputs, and called for a competitive tariff structure for essential materials not produced locally in adequate quantity. He also urged a level playing field against businesses operating outside the formal framework, citing smuggling, under-invoicing and substandard products.

Abdullah Zaki, the newly elected Senior Vice Chairman, thanked outgoing Chairman Asif Iqbal Paracha and the departing office bearers for their service. PSMA said it will pursue structured dialogue between industry and government and evidence-based policy suggestions for the sector's growth.