Pakistan aims for stronger trade ties with Saudi Arabia

JEDDAH, Feb 09 (Arab News): Pakistan is seeking to expand its trade ties with Saudi Arabia, aiming for a larger share of the $5.5 billion bilateral trade market by diversifying exports beyond traditional commodities, a senior minister said.

Speaking to Arab News at the conclusion of Pakistan's first solo 'Made in Pakistan' exhibition and business forum in Jeddah, federal commerce minister Jam Kamal Khan noted that a significant portion of the total trade volume comprises petroleum and minerals exported from Saudi Arabia.

"Our annual export to Saudi Arabia is going to be close to $600 to $700 million, which again is not that big a figure. That is why I feel the reason for inaugurating these exhibitions over here is that we can tap those potential areas where Pakistani and Saudi Arabian companies can jointly work to benefit trade between the countries," he said.