Pakistan, KSA push for early GCC free trade agreement

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have called for quicker progress towards signing and implementing a proposed free trade pact between Pakistan and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). Business Recorder reported that the issue was raised in Islamabad during talks between Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan and Saudi Arabia’s newly appointed ambassador, Dr Rajeh Albugamy.

Khan said the agreement could widen access to markets, increase trade and support closer economic links. He also pointed to potential cooperation in production, product quality, technology and industrial competitiveness, while stressing the need to broaden Pakistan’s exports and build private-sector partnerships. Albugamy highlighted opportunities in regional connectivity and agriculture, and both sides agreed to continue coordination on trade, investment and agricultural cooperation.