Pakistan and Vietnam officially started negotiations for a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) to enhance bilateral trade and economic cooperation. The launch took place during a high-level meeting and the Pakistan-Vietnam Business Forum in Islamabad on October 14, 2025. Both nations aim to finalize the PTA by the end of 2025, opening new avenues for trade and investment.
Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan welcomed the Vietnamese delegation and highlighted the strong friendship between the two countries. He stressed that despite progress, trade remains below potential. The PTA is expected to expand market access, remove trade barriers, and diversify trade, benefiting both sides.
Read more: Vietnamese minister arrives in Islamabad on three-day visit
Vietnam’s Minister of Industry and Trade H.E. Nguyên Hùng Diên expressed strong support for the agreement. He said the PTA will help diversify exports and build resilience against global economic challenges. Both countries agreed to boost private sector partnerships, especially in Special Economic Zones, to foster joint ventures.
Connectivity improvements were also discussed, including plans for direct flights to promote trade and tourism. Minister Jam Kamal Khan highlighted Pakistan’s Buddhist heritage sites as potential tourist attractions for Vietnamese pilgrims. Both sides also committed to cooperation in science, technology, and innovation.
Read more: Vietnam Welcomes Pakistani Goods as PTA Talks Begin
The signing of the Joint Statement officially launched the PTA negotiations, underscoring the shared commitment to build a strong and sustainable economic partnership. The ministers invited Vietnamese businesses to the upcoming FoodAg Exhibition in Karachi to explore Pakistan’s agricultural potential.