GCC trade pact must translate into export growth: BMP chief

Business Recorder reported on November 3 that BMP chairman Mian Anjum Nisar wants Pakistan to make export expansion a central objective in negotiations over a proposed free-trade pact with the Gulf Cooperation Council. He said stronger political ties with Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, will not deliver economic gains unless they generate more trade, investment and industrial cooperation.

Nisar pointed to commercial openings in Saudi Arabia under Vision 2030, including manufacturing, food processing, engineering, logistics and construction-related activity. He said Pakistani exporters face costly production, unpredictable policies and limited marketing channels, and urged the government to address high energy charges, financing costs, taxes and transport expenses. He also called for chambers and trade groups to be consulted, with smaller businesses given financial and technical help to build export capacity.