During his official visit to Tashkent on 11 December 2025, Mr. Ihsaan Afzal, Coordinator to the Prime Minister of Pakistan on Commerce and Industry, held in-depth talks with H.E. Mr. Shohrukh Gulamov, Deputy Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
Both sides reaffirmed their firm commitment to elevate bilateral trade to US$ 2 billion within the next two years, in line with the vision of the Prime Minister of Pakistan and the President of Uzbekistan.
The meeting focused on the immediate expansion of the existing Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA). Deputy Minister Gulamov confirmed that the two countries are actively finalising a significantly broadened product list and stated that a formal understanding on the expanded PTA is expected very soon.
Mr. Ihsaan Afzal emphasised the urgent need to standardise documentation, harmonise customs procedures and inspection protocols, and establish digital connectivity to reduce delays and enhance trade predictability. He highlighted the importance of real-time cross-border data exchange. Deputy Minister Gulamov assured full support and confirmed that technical teams are working expeditiously to operationalise an Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) system between the relevant authorities of Pakistan and Uzbekistan.
The Uzbek side identified textiles, leather, pharmaceuticals, and surgical instruments as key sectors where Uzbekistan seeks joint ventures and technology transfer from Pakistan. Both delegations agreed to intensify business-to-business contacts and exchange of trade delegations to translate political will into concrete commercial results. Mr. Ihsaan Afzal expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality and reaffirmed Pakistan’s strong desire to deepen economic ties with brotherly Uzbekistan.