Pakistan Secures Low US Tariff Rates, Boosting Export Prospects

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Parliamentary Secretary for Commerce Zulfiqar Ali Bhatti confirmed on Thursday that the United States has not imposed punitive tariffs on Pakistani exports, easing earlier concerns about a potential $1 billion trade loss. Pakistan, he said, currently enjoys some of the lowest tariff rates among regional competitors, including India.

Responding to a question from MNA Tahira Aurangzeb in the National Assembly, Bhatti explained that the initial fears were based on speculation before US tariff decisions were finalized. “Thankfully, the situation has changed. Where once Indian goods faced a 25% tariff, Pakistan’s direct tariff is now among the lowest in the region,” he said.

Bhatti credited this favorable outcome to coordinated diplomatic efforts by the prime minister, finance minister, minister for commerce, and the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC). He noted that this achievement was the result of persistent engagement with US trade officials and active monitoring of negotiations to safeguard Pakistan’s export interests.

The parliamentary secretary assured lawmakers that the Ministry of Commerce is working closely with chambers of commerce and trade unions to develop mechanisms supporting local exporters. These include training programs, improved facilitation channels, and advisory services to help businesses take advantage of new trade opportunities.

“Currently, Pakistan enjoys a trade surplus with the United States worth $3.3 billion,” Bhatti said. “With the present favorable tariff conditions, our exports are likely to grow further in the coming months.”

During the session, MNA Dr Shazia Sobia highlighted logistical challenges in remote regions, particularly Gilgit-Baltistan, where the absence of cold chain facilities hinders the export of perishable goods such as fresh and dry fruits. She stressed that the lack of refrigeration and modern storage systems reduces the competitiveness of these products in international markets.

Acknowledging these concerns, Bhatti said the government is prioritizing infrastructure development to address export bottlenecks in underdeveloped areas. Plans include upgrading transportation networks, enhancing cold storage capacity, and expanding regional access to global supply chains.

Bhatti also underlined the government’s commitment to ensuring that exporters from all parts of the country benefit from favorable trade conditions. “By improving our logistics, we can help regions like Gilgit-Baltistan fully participate in national and global trade growth,” he said.

The update comes at a time when Pakistan is seeking to expand its export base, diversify its product range, and strengthen trade relationships with key partners. The favorable US tariff status, combined with targeted domestic support measures, is seen as a significant boost to these efforts.