Pakistan and the United Kingdom have officially launched a UK–Pakistan Business Advisory Council to enhance trade, attract investment, and deepen economic ties. The announcement came during high-level bilateral trade talks held in London on July 14, co-chaired by Federal Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan and UK’s Minister for Trade Policy and Economic Security Douglas Alexander. This council is a key step toward building a more structured and long-term trade relationship.
The new council will include senior business leaders and government officials from both sides. It will serve as a trusted forum to discuss trade barriers, provide strategic policy input, and promote the adoption of global best practices. One of the council’s main goals is to create smoother market access and unlock untapped commercial potential between Pakistan and the UK. This move reflects the shared intent to modernize and grow bilateral trade mechanisms.
During the meeting, both ministers agreed to hold annual ministerial dialogues to assess progress and identify new areas for cooperation. They expressed strong interest in digital technology and healthcare, sectors that are central to the UK’s industrial strategy. These sectors also align with Pakistan’s push toward innovation, digitalization, and health sector reforms. Both sides acknowledged that strengthening ties in these areas could result in job creation, innovation, and mutual economic growth.
Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan said the UK is one of Pakistan’s most important economic partners and emphasized that aligning national priorities could open the door to sustainable and future-ready economic opportunities. He also shared Pakistan’s vision for encouraging foreign direct investment, simplifying investor access, and increasing private sector engagement. Minister Alexander welcomed this vision, stating that the talks mark a new phase in a long-standing partnership and open “exciting new opportunities” for businesses in both countries.
To support Pakistan’s efforts, the UK announced a £200,000 technical assistance package to help strengthen investor linkages and enhance outreach to British companies. The discussions also celebrated a 7.3% rise in bilateral trade during the last quarter, with total trade volume reaching £4.7 billion. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to building on this momentum. The UK also reiterated its resolve to make its business environment more dynamic, transparent, and investor-friendly, offering Pakistani businesses a solid platform to grow globally.