Chinese business delegation explores trade opportunities with TDAP

KARACHI: A high-profile Chinese business delegation visited the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) head office to discuss various trade facilitation measures between Pakistan and China.

The talks centred on developing a large-scale wholesale market in Karachi, enhancing logistics infrastructure, improving customs connectivity and promoting commodity trade while addressing existing barriers, according to a statement released on Tuesday.

The delegation’s visit coincided with China’s National Day.TDAP officials, led by Director General Aasim Tiwana, welcomed the delegation, which included CEO of Pak Belt & Road Trading International Limited William X Wan; Chairman of China (Pvt) Limited Mr. Bilal Janjua; and General Manager of Pak Belt & Road Trading International Muhammad Irahin.

During the discussions, TDAP officials highlighted the organization’s ongoing trade facilitation efforts. The Chinese delegation praised these efforts, but also pointed out challenges, particularly the limited access to social media platforms in China, which impacts awareness of Pakistani products and exhibitions.

In response, the delegation proposed organizing exhibitions in China with TDAP’s support and pledged their full cooperation for such initiatives. They also offered policy recommendations for the joint coordination committee (JCC) and expressed their willingness to collaborate on trade-related matters with TDAP.

Both sides acknowledged the importance of boosting bilateral trade, with the current trade volume between the two countries standing at $14 billion. Pakistan’s exports to China are valued at $2.76 billion, while imports from China amount to $11.7 billion.