ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has proposed a future Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United Kingdom, presenting it as a natural progression in an expanding bilateral trade relationship. The proposal emerged during a meeting in Islamabad between Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan and UK official Edward Llewellyn, attended by British High Commissioner Jane Marriott, where both sides reviewed recent developments under the Pakistan-UK Trade Dialogue.
During the discussions, officials welcomed the establishment of a dedicated working group on healthcare and life sciences, describing it as a positive step toward deeper sectoral cooperation. The two countries also agreed to operationalise additional working groups in key areas, including information technology, agriculture, professional services, education, and skills development. The broadening of engagement across these sectors reflects an effort by both governments to strengthen institutional links and expand trade-related collaboration beyond traditional goods markets.
Pakistan used the meeting to emphasise its ongoing structural reforms aimed at improving competitiveness and attracting foreign investment. Officials highlighted tariff rationalisation, regulatory adjustments, and the importance of policy continuity as part of a wider strategy to create a more stable and investor-friendly commercial environment.
The UK side, meanwhile, raised concerns regarding intellectual property policy and urged Pakistan to ensure predictability in its regulatory framework. Both delegations also discussed the registration of geographical indications and trademarks for Pakistani basmati rice, an issue viewed as significant for the protection and promotion of Pakistan’s export interests in international markets.
Broader geopolitical trade risks were also part of the exchange, with particular attention given to tensions around the Strait of Hormuz. Pakistani officials noted that rising maritime insurance and shipping costs were placing additional pressure on exports and called for a fairer assessment of risk zones affecting regional trade routes.
The meeting signalled a shared interest in expanding economic ties, while also underscoring the policy and regulatory issues that both sides consider essential for sustaining long-term commercial cooperation.
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