Commerce Minister backs RCCI’s US outreach as business delegation signals momentum in bilateral trade talks

Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening trade relations with the United States, describing private sector engagement as a cornerstone of Pakistan’s economic diplomacy efforts.

The remarks came during a meeting with a delegation from the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which briefed the minister on the outcomes of its recent visit to the United States and interactions with American policymakers and business leaders.

According to a statement issued on Saturday, RCCI President Usman Shaukat and Senior Vice President Khalid Farooq Kazi informed the minister that their engagements generated encouraging signals for expanding bilateral trade, particularly in key industrial segments including steel, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, minerals, mining and technology.

Discussions held on Capitol Hill focused on strengthening commercial cooperation and improving market access, with US stakeholders emphasising the importance of policy predictability and streamlined investor facilitation to support long-term business partnerships.

The delegation also reported constructive responses from institutions such as the New York City Economic Development Corporation and the New York Chamber of Commerce, where prospects for collaboration with Pakistan’s private sector were explored.

Officials noted that the Pakistani diaspora in the United States, especially professionals working in the technology sector, was identified as an increasingly influential channel for promoting Pakistan’s business opportunities and strengthening commercial linkages between the two economies.

The commerce minister appreciated the chamber’s outreach initiative, stating that structured, business-led engagement with international partners remains essential for sustaining export growth and diversifying Pakistan’s trade relationships.