Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have agreed to deepen economic cooperation and explore joint entry into fast-growing regional markets. The announcement followed high-level talks between Federal Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan and Saudi Assistant Minister for Investment Ibrahim Al-Mubarak in Islamabad on Wednesday. The move aims to combine Pakistan’s manufacturing base with Saudi Arabia’s financial strength and global market access.
Officials said both sides identified Central Asia, Africa, and ASEAN countries as priority destinations for trade expansion. Key sectors include food products, construction materials, and light manufactured goods. The collaboration aims to leverage Pakistan’s production capabilities with Saudi Arabia’s investment and logistics networks for competitive regional presence.
Read more: Pakistan, KSA discuss trade, investment and regional market
Agriculture emerged as a central theme, with Saudi interest in corporate farming initiatives, especially in rice, fodder, and meat production. Discussions covered mechanization, storage, and export-oriented infrastructure, with potential Saudi financing to boost productivity and ensure consistent supply.
Human resource development was also emphasized, targeting mid-level skilled workers such as nurses, technicians, and hospitality professionals. Saudi officials proposed “train-to-deploy” programs linking vocational training in Pakistan with overseas employment, aiming to reduce unemployment and increase remittances.
Read more: Pakistan and Saudi Arabia agree to boost counterterror cooperation
Beyond agriculture and labor, industrial cooperation was discussed in building materials, pharmaceuticals, sports goods, footwear, and light manufacturing. Both sides plan sector-specific workshops and business-to-business engagements to translate policy alignment into tangible investment outcomes. The initiative signals a long-term shift toward diversified, mutually beneficial economic collaboration.