Pakistan has been urged to strengthen its commercial ties with Middle Eastern countries and other regional economies to increase exports, generate foreign exchange and create employment opportunities. Saif Ur Rehman, Coordinator to the Federal Tax Ombudsman, called for a broader approach to regional trade, highlighting the potential of Middle Eastern markets for Pakistani products. Speaking to a group of traders on Sunday, he identified fruits, vegetables and processed food items, including products such as Zia Snacks, as examples of goods that could find opportunities in these markets. According to a spokesperson, his remarks focused on expanding export destinations and improving the conditions required for Pakistani businesses to compete internationally.
Saif Ur Rehman emphasised that stronger regional trade networks could help local exporters reach new customers and reduce their dependence on a limited number of overseas markets. Expanding commercial links with Middle Eastern economies could create opportunities for agricultural producers, food processors and other businesses seeking to increase international sales. Diversifying export destinations can also help businesses reach different consumer groups and reduce their exposure to changing demand in individual markets. According to the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP), he called for a focused effort to strengthen these trade relationships, attract investment and generate employment through increased commercial activity.
The coordinator also stressed the need to simplify export procedures to make it easier for Pakistani businesses to sell their products abroad. Complicated administrative requirements can increase the time and cost involved in moving goods across borders, creating challenges for businesses trying to compete with international suppliers. Improving the efficiency of export-related processes could help companies manage shipments more effectively and respond to overseas demand. For smaller exporters and businesses entering new markets, clearer procedures and more efficient administrative arrangements can be particularly important in controlling operating costs and maintaining reliable delivery schedules.
Logistics improvements were another priority highlighted by Saif Ur Rehman. Efficient transportation, storage and delivery arrangements are essential for exporters, particularly those dealing in fruits, vegetables and other products that require careful handling or have limited shelf lives. Better logistics networks can help reduce delays, protect product quality and improve the reliability of shipments. He also called for reductions in energy and production costs, which affect the prices at which Pakistani goods can compete in international markets. Lower operating expenses could help manufacturers and agricultural businesses offer more competitive prices while supporting their ability to expand production for export markets.
Saif Ur Rehman further underlined the importance of improved banking and customs facilities for businesses involved in international trade. Exporters rely on banking services to process payments, manage transactions and handle the financial requirements associated with overseas customers. Efficient customs procedures are equally important for clearing goods and ensuring that shipments move through the export process without unnecessary delays. Improvements in these areas could help reduce operational difficulties and make it easier for Pakistani businesses to establish relationships with international buyers. Better coordination among financial institutions, customs authorities and exporters can also support more predictable trade operations.
Highlighting Pakistan’s geographical position, the coordinator called for stronger commercial relationships with neighbouring countries and other regional economies. Pakistan’s location provides opportunities to connect domestic producers with markets across the wider region, although the ability to benefit from these opportunities depends on effective trade arrangements, competitive production and reliable logistics. A more focused export strategy could help businesses identify products with overseas demand and develop the capacity to supply them consistently. The emphasis on regional cooperation also reflects the potential for closer commercial engagement to support investment and broaden the range of markets available to Pakistani businesses.
Saif Ur Rehman called for greater attention to value-added exports as part of efforts to improve Pakistan’s trade performance and reduce the trade deficit. Value addition involves processing raw materials or agricultural produce into goods that can command greater commercial value in domestic and international markets. For example, food processing can allow producers to sell packaged products rather than relying exclusively on unprocessed agricultural commodities. Developing such activities could create additional business opportunities, support employment and increase the value generated from domestic production. However, achieving these outcomes will require improvements in production efficiency, financing access, export procedures and the ability of businesses to meet the requirements of overseas buyers.
The call to expand trade with Middle Eastern and regional markets places emphasis on addressing both market access and domestic business constraints. Identifying new buyers is only one part of export growth; businesses also need competitive production costs, efficient customs clearance, reliable transport and suitable banking services to complete international transactions. By focusing on these areas alongside value-added production, Pakistan could broaden its export base and strengthen foreign exchange generation. The recommendations outlined by Saif Ur Rehman highlight the importance of coordinated efforts to support exporters, diversify destinations and make Pakistani products more competitive in international markets.
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