Ishaq Dar highlights investment opportunities, reforms, and SIFC’s role in boosting Pakistan-US economic cooperation
Pakistan has invited American companies to capitalize on its improving business environment, with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Ishaq Dar expressing confidence that bilateral trade between Pakistan and the United States could reach $20 billion over the next five years.
Speaking at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs during a meeting with a visiting U.S. Congressional delegation and senior American business representatives, Dar emphasized Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening its long-standing strategic and economic partnership with the United States.
He said both countries were well-positioned to expand collaboration in trade, investment, and emerging industries.
Welcoming the delegation, the deputy prime minister described the visit as a reflection of the positive momentum in Pakistan-US relations.
He noted that Pakistan and the United States, representing the world’s fifth and third largest populations respectively, possess significant economic strengths that can be leveraged to create a mutually beneficial partnership.
Dar highlighted that the United States remains Pakistan’s largest single-country export market, with bilateral trade reaching approximately $9.4 billion during the previous fiscal year. He expressed optimism that trade volumes could more than double through increased economic engagement and investment cooperation.
The foreign minister stressed Pakistan’s commitment to fair, balanced, and mutually rewarding trade relations. He noted that Pakistan is among the leading importers of U.S. cotton and soybeans, supporting American agriculture, while also becoming an important destination for U.S. energy exports.
At the same time, Pakistan’s rising demand for advanced machinery, technology, and industrial equipment presents substantial opportunities for American manufacturers.
He pointed out that several U.S. companies are actively exploring investment prospects in sectors such as information technology, artificial intelligence, critical minerals, energy, defense, and manufacturing. According to Dar, Pakistan’s ongoing economic reforms and competitive tariff environment have further enhanced the country’s appeal as an investment destination.
Highlighting the role of the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), Dar described it as a one-window platform designed to simplify investment procedures and improve coordination among government institutions. He encouraged American businesses to engage with the SIFC to transform emerging opportunities into long-term commercial partnerships.
The deputy prime minister reaffirmed Pakistan’s readiness to offer attractive incentives for foreign investors, including opportunities in special economic zones and technology parks.
He also expressed hope that institutions such as the U.S. Export-Import Bank, the U.S. International Development Finance Corporation, and the U.S. Trade and Development Agency would continue supporting bilateral trade and investment growth.
Dar concluded by inviting American investors to become partners in Pakistan’s economic transformation, assuring them of the government’s full support and facilitation for sustainable long-term success.