$1.9bn Trade: Dutch Delegation eyes Pakistan for Investment

ISLAMABAD (News Desk): Pakistan and the Netherlands explored new trade and investment opportunities in textiles, IT, agriculture and engineering during a meeting with a Dutch business delegation in Islamabad.

Commerce Secretary Jawad Paul hosted the dinner in honour of the delegation led by Merlin Melles. Dutch Ambassador Robert-Jan Siegert, Special Secretary Commerce Syed Hamid Ali and PSEB officials also attended.

Paul stressed direct business-to-business engagement and highlighted Pakistan’s manufacturing capabilities, tech sector and skilled workforce.

The Commerce Ministry gave a detailed presentation on Pakistan-EU trade ties, GSP Plus benefits and export diversification potential in agriculture, textiles and sports goods.

Ambassador Siegert said Netherlands is Pakistan’s second-largest export market in the EU with bilateral trade at about $1.9 billion, driven by Pakistani exports. He welcomed growing Dutch interest in joint ventures and agri-projects.

Delegation members appreciated visits to Systems Limited and textile industries in Karachi and showed interest in software development, remote services and skilled staffing.

Both sides agreed to maintain regular engagement and convert commercial interest into joint ventures and investments.