ISLAMABAD, October 30, 2026: The Pakistan–SADC summit has highlighted new opportunities to expand trade and investment cooperation between Pakistan and the Southern African Development Community (SADC), focusing on improved market access, business partnerships and stronger commercial links across key economic sectors.
The discussions built on the objectives of the 1st Africa Diplomatic & Economic Conference 2026, organised by the Pakistan SADC Chamber Trade Federation (PSCTF), Pakistan Chapter.
The initiative is associated with the federation’s leadership, including Patron-in-Chief Dewan Muhammad Yousuf Farooqui and PSCTF Pakistan Chapter Chairman Muhammad Rafiq Memon.
Pakistan–Africa trade reaches $4.85 billion
According to Ministry of Commerce Year Book figures cited in the summit presentation, Pakistan–Africa merchandise trade stood at $4.85 billion during fiscal year 2024–25.
The total included Pakistani exports worth $2.24 billion and imports valued at $2.61 billion. The presentation also reported bilateral merchandise trade of $5.45 billion in FY2023–24.
Participants discussed opportunities to strengthen trade relations by identifying commercially viable products, connecting potential buyers and suppliers, and addressing barriers to market entry.
Key sectors identified for trade expansion
The summit identified several sectors offering potential for greater commercial cooperation, including food and agriculture, textiles and apparel, cement, minerals, machinery, electrical equipment, pharmaceuticals, medical and surgical instruments, leather products, footwear and sports goods.
South Africa, Madagascar, Tanzania and Mozambique were among the African markets highlighted in the preliminary market assessment. Country-specific trade figures remain subject to further verification.
The discussions also emphasised the importance of two-way trade, recognising opportunities for African exporters alongside efforts to increase Pakistani exports.
Pakistan’s existing imports from African markets include coal, liquefied natural gas, phosphoric acid, natural phosphates and refined copper cathodes.
These supply relationships could support stronger industrial cooperation and more diversified supply chains while creating additional opportunities for Pakistani businesses in priority export sectors.
90-day action plan proposed
A proposed 90-day action plan seeks to convert the identified opportunities into practical business outcomes.
The plan focuses on validating trade data, preparing targeted buyer and supplier lists, assessing tariffs and market-entry requirements, and arranging pilot business meetings for selected products and countries.
The proposed measures are intended to help businesses identify potential trading partners, understand regulatory requirements and explore commercially sustainable partnerships.
The summit discussions underscored the importance of reliable trade information, improved market access and sustained business engagement in strengthening Pakistan’s economic relations with African countries.
Participants highlighted the potential for sector-specific cooperation to expand trade, encourage investment, strengthen supply chains and create long-term commercial opportunities between Pakistan and SADC member states.
