ISLAMABAD: US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Baker appreciated the efforts of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif-led government in reforming the country’s economy and fostering an investor-friendly environment. She also highlighted the potential for US businesses to play a key role in Pakistan’s economic stability and growth.
She was speaking at a webinar hosted by the Business Council for International Understanding, which aimed to explore opportunities for American companies to invest and expand their operations in Pakistan. The remarks were shared in a statement issued by the US Embassy on Wednesday.
The event brought together US and Pakistani business leaders, as well as representatives from financial institutions. The discussion focused on Pakistan’s evolving business landscape and recent economic reforms.
Ms Baker also underscored several of Pakistan’s strategic advantages. These include its large and growing consumer market, competitive labour costs and strategic geographic location.
“This is the fifth-largest country in the world, home to 250 million people, with 64 per cent of the population under the age of 30. It’s one of the world’s largest and youngest consumer markets,” she said.
She noted that Pakistan’s GDP is approximately $412 billion, ranking it 38th globally. However, Goldman Sachs projects that it could reach $3.3 trillion by 2050, placing Pakistan among the top 10 to 15 economies in the world.
The US Chargé d’Affaires also identified key sectors that present investment opportunities for American businesses. These include critical minerals, information and communications technology, agriculture, energy and infrastructure development.
She encouraged American companies to engage with the US Foreign Commercial Service team at the US Mission in Pakistan. She also urged them to explore partnerships with Pakistani counterparts.
“Let’s use this moment to build profitable ventures for US companies and investors, contribute to economic prosperity for both our nations, and deepen bilateral ties,” she said.