Karachi, February 18, 2025 – Thailand has reiterated its desire for the swift finalization of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with Pakistan to enhance bilateral trade relations.
The Ambassador of Thailand to Pakistan, Rongvudhi Virabutr, emphasized the importance of accelerating FTA discussions during his visit to the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), urging the business community to advocate for its prompt conclusion.
“The Thailand-Pakistan FTA holds immense potential for both countries. Although negotiations have been on hold, we are committed to resuming talks and finalizing the agreement,” stated Ambassador Virabutr. He stressed that the FTA extends beyond trade in goods, encompassing services and investments that can significantly boost economic cooperation between Thailand and Pakistan.
The meeting was attended by prominent figures, including Consul General of Thailand Surashete Boontinand, KCCI officials, and representatives from the Thai Embassy. The Ambassador highlighted Thailand’s ambition to increase bilateral trade from $1.1 billion to $2 billion. “Before the pandemic, our trade volume touched $1.8 billion. With renewed efforts and the FTA, we can surpass this milestone,” he added.
Currently, Pakistan’s exports to Thailand are around $150 million, with imports from Thailand reaching $719 million. The Ambassador identified key sectors such as pharmaceuticals, seafood, chemicals, and cement where Pakistan could enhance its exports to Thailand.
Ambassador Virabutr also discussed potential collaboration in Thailand’s thriving electric vehicle (EV) sector. “Thailand has made remarkable progress in EV development. We are ready to share our expertise with Pakistan,” he said.
Moreover, the Consul General announced the introduction of an e-visa system to facilitate travel for Pakistani citizens to Thailand. “This initiative aims to simplify the visa process and promote people-to-people connections,” said Boontinand.
Senior Vice President KCCI Zia ul Arfeen underscored the significance of the FTA, noting that strengthening trade ties with Thailand would open doors to the broader ASEAN market. “By capitalizing on Thailand’s strengths in automotive, seafood, and rubber industries, Pakistan can significantly boost its exports,” he remarked.
The event concluded with a proposal to host an ASEAN Trade Fair in Karachi, providing a platform for businesses from Thailand, Pakistan, and other ASEAN countries to explore new trade opportunities and further solidify economic ties between the two nations.