Pakistan and U.S. Work to Resolve Tariff Issues and Boost Investment

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan is actively engaging with the United States to address tariff concerns and strengthen economic ties, as Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif assured a visiting U.S.-Pakistan Business Council delegation of ongoing efforts to create a more investor-friendly environment.

During a high-level meeting, PM Sharif expressed optimism about reaching a mutually beneficial solution to tariff disputes, highlighting Pakistan’s commitment to transparent policies and economic reforms. The delegation included Charles Freeman, Senior VP for Asia at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and Esperanza Gomez, President of the U.S.-Pakistan Business Council, alongside executives from Abbott, Apple, and Eurasia Group.

The Pakistani government, represented by Deputy PM Ishaq Dar and key federal ministers, emphasized the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) as a one-window solution for foreign investors. PM Sharif noted that over 80 American companies are already operating in Pakistan, contributing to job creation and export growth.

Pakistan’s economic recovery was also highlighted, with Fitch Ratings upgrading the country’s credit rating from CCC+ to B- and the State Bank of Pakistan lowering the policy rate to 11% to support business expansion.

This engagement reflects Pakistan’s dedication to fostering international investment and strengthening economic partnerships with the U.S..