Malaysian High Commissioner Aims to Boost Bilateral Trade to $12 Billion

Malaysian High Commissioner to Pakistan, Mohammad Azhar Bin Mazlan, announced that the current bilateral trade volume between Malaysia and Pakistan is $1.8 billion, significantly lower than the potential of $12 billion annually.

Speaking at the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI), he emphasized the need to boost trade to match the potential and urged the ICCI to play a pivotal role in this advancement.

He highlighted numerous opportunities for growth in the halal industry in both countries and called on the private sector to take concrete steps to develop this sector. He assured that Malaysia would fully support Pakistan in becoming a regional hub for the halal industry. Additionally, he noted that over 5,000 Pakistani students are currently enrolled in Malaysian universities, enjoying an Islamic environment conducive to their studies, particularly for female students who can pursue their education with full religious freedom.

The High Commissioner stressed that Pakistan and Malaysia are strategic partners, with this partnership being crucial for the economic development and prosperity of both nations. He also mentioned that more than 200,000 Pakistani workers are employed in various sectors in Malaysia, indicating ample opportunities for them.

Former President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), Zubair Ahmed Malik, underscored the historical economic and trade ties between Pakistan and Malaysia. He advocated for regular exchanges of think tanks to enhance the existing relationship. Secretary General of the United Business Group, Zafar Bakhtawari, emphasized the importance of ASEAN States and called for Pakistan to be granted full dialogue partner status. He also highlighted that establishing direct air links between Pakistan and ASEAN States would significantly strengthen mutual trade relations.