Pakistan, US make progress on trade deal, but technical issues remain

Business Recorder reported that Pakistan and the US have moved forward on a number of clauses in a planned reciprocal trade pact, though some technical matters remain unresolved. Commerce Secretary Jawad Paul noted on Tuesday that a handful of technical questions still require discussion with the USTR. The update emerged from talks between Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan and US Chargé d'Affaires Natalie A. Baker.

Both sides reviewed the negotiations and reaffirmed their intent to reach a mutually beneficial outcome. Jam Kamal Khan argued that closer commercial ties with the US could widen market access, draw in private-sector participation and bring investment into emerging sectors. Mango and date exports also featured, with Jawad Paul seeking an early visit by US inspection teams for mangoes and progress on the pending dates market access process.

Talks also touched on possible US cotton and soybean sales to Pakistan, with pricing and trade financing flagged as key to higher imports. Jam Kamal invited American firms to take part in FoodAg 2026, scheduled for 23 to 26 November in Karachi, and encouraged investment in farm machinery and cold-chain infrastructure. The US delegation said it would pursue these matters with its own authorities.