PAEC will connect Pakistani businesses, investors and entrepreneurs with project-based opportunities across African markets.
The Pakistan-Africa Economic Council (PAEC) is set to be formally launched this Friday, marking a significant step toward strengthening Pakistan’s economic engagement with the African continent.
The new platform aims to expand trade, investment and business cooperation between Pakistani companies and Africa’s growing markets.
The PAEC is being presented as Pakistan’s first Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP)-authorized and registered entrepreneurship platform specifically focused on Africa.
It will provide a structured forum for Pakistani and international entrepreneurs, investors and businesses to explore project-based opportunities and joint ventures in Pakistan and selected African countries.
With Africa’s population estimated at around 1.59 billion, the Council sees considerable potential for expanding commercial relations between the two regions. According to a statement issued on Tuesday, PAEC intends to bring together capital, production capabilities and entrepreneurial expertise with viable projects across African economies.
Initial Focus on East Africa
The Council’s initial international focus will be on East Africa, with Rwanda, Ethiopia, Uganda and Djibouti identified as priority markets. Its engagement is expected to later expand to Somalia, Sudan and South Sudan.
Through these initiatives, PAEC aims to facilitate partnerships capable of supporting industrial development, job creation, economic growth and stronger regional connectivity. The platform will seek to help businesses move beyond conventional import-export activity toward long-term investment and commercial cooperation.
Business Missions Planned for 2026
As part of its international expansion strategy, PAEC has planned two business opportunity missions to East Africa during the final quarter of 2026. The visits will be conducted in cooperation with local partners and host governments.
The missions are expected to give Pakistani entrepreneurs and investors an opportunity to examine projects, engage with potential business partners and evaluate investment prospects directly in African markets.
PAEC said its advantage would stem from its network of experienced Pakistani production and business partners, alongside relationships with African companies, local stakeholders and government representatives.
The Council ultimately aims to serve as a bridge between Pakistan and Africa by connecting investment capital, business expertise and entrepreneurial capabilities with practical projects. Through private-sector collaboration and sustainable joint ventures, the initiative seeks to deepen Pakistan-Africa trade and economic relations.