Govt asked to foster greater economic ties with Malaysia

Pakistan-Malaysia Friendship Association President Shahid Javed Qureshi has called on the government to revisit the Malaysia-Pakistan Closer Economic Partnership Agreement, aiming to ease market-access obstacles, lift exports and draw investment. Business Recorder reported that trade between the countries was about $1.55 billion in 2025, with room to expand commercial and investment links.

Qureshi urged Pakistani exporters to develop higher-value halal food, seafood, branded textiles and leather goods, and highlighted quality, certification and international standards as priorities. He also proposed cooperation in digital industries, technology and sustainable business, alongside joint ventures, education and training exchanges. He said improved transport links and trade facilitation could strengthen Pakistan's connections with Southeast Asia and other regions, while calling for closer public-private coordination.