ISLAMABAD, October 28, 2026: Pakistan and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) have identified fresh opportunities to expand trade and investment, with a proposed 90-day action plan aimed at connecting businesses, improving market access and turning trade potential into practical commercial partnerships.The plan focuses on verifying trade data, preparing targeted lists of buyers and suppliers, assessing tariffs and market-entry requirements, and arranging pilot business meetings for selected products and markets.The initiative builds on the objectives of the 1st Africa Diplomatic & Economic Conference 2026, organised by the Pakistan SADC Chamber Trade Federation (PSCTF), Pakistan Chapter. The federation’s leadership includes Patron-in-Chief Dewan Muhammad Yousuf Farooqui and Chairman Muhammad Rafiq Memon.
According to figures cited from the Ministry of Commerce Year Book during the summit presentation, Pakistan’s merchandise trade with Africa reached $4.85 billion in FY2024–25, including $2.24 billion in exports and $2.61 billion in imports. Total trade was reported at $5.45 billion in FY2023–24.Several sectors were identified as having strong potential for expanded commercial cooperation, including food and agriculture, textiles and apparel, cement, minerals, machinery, electrical equipment, pharmaceuticals, medical and surgical instruments, leather goods, footwear and sports products.South Africa, Madagascar, Tanzania and Mozambique were among the markets highlighted for further exploration, although the country-level trade figures require additional verification.
The discussions also highlighted opportunities for African exporters to supply Pakistan with products such as coal, liquefied natural gas, phosphoric acid, natural phosphates and refined copper cathodes. At the same time, Pakistani businesses could explore greater access to African markets for food products, textiles, cement, minerals and other competitive goods.Participants stressed that reliable trade data, a clear understanding of market requirements and direct business-to-business engagement would be essential to achieving meaningful results.
The proposed action plan aims to move beyond broad trade discussions towards practical partnerships, stronger supply chains and sustainable trade and investment opportunities between Pakistan and SADC member countries.
