Pakistan, Iran Make Significant Progress Toward Expanding Bilateral Trade
Islamabad, The Gulf Observer: Pakistan and Iran have made important progress in efforts to enhance bilateral trade and economic cooperation, with both countries reaffirming their commitment to accelerating cross-border commerce and achieving a mutual trade target of $10 billion. The development came during a meeting between Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Investment Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh and Iranian Ambassador Reza Amiri Moghadam in Islamabad.
The two sides reviewed measures to strengthen trade, investment and regional connectivity, with particular focus on the establishment of joint free and special economic zones along the Pakistan-Iran border. Discussions were held under the framework of a memorandum of understanding signed between Pakistan’s Board of Investment and Iran’s Supreme Council of Free Trade, Industrial and Special Economic Zones.
A key area of discussion was the operationalisation of the Rimdan-Gabd Border Special Economic Zone (SEZ), which is expected to play a pivotal role in boosting cross-border trade, attracting investment and improving economic opportunities for communities living in border regions. Both sides agreed to expedite technical work required for the project, including a joint visit to finalise and notify the zone’s boundaries.
Officials noted that the proposed SEZ, along with previously agreed border markets, would contribute significantly to increasing commercial activity and facilitating legal trade between the neighbouring countries. The initiative is also expected to strengthen regional connectivity and support broader economic integration.
Pakistan and Iran have repeatedly expressed their determination to expand economic ties, with trade between the two countries already showing growth in recent years. Both governments view enhanced infrastructure, improved border facilities and greater business-to-business engagement as essential steps toward achieving the long-term bilateral trade target.
The latest discussions reflect the shared resolve of Islamabad and Tehran to deepen economic cooperation and unlock the full potential of their strategic geographic and commercial partnership.
