KARACHI (special crosspondent) – Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh, President of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI), has underscored the necessity for a more proactive and commercially oriented engagement with ASEAN. Addressing the commemoration of ASEAN Day 2026 at Federation House, Karachi, under the theme “Strengthening Pakistan–ASEAN Trade, Investment and Economic Partnership,” Mr. Sheikh emphasized the urgency of fostering greater trade, investment, joint ventures, technology cooperation, and robust business-to-business (B2B) linkages between Pakistan and the ASEAN member states.

Expanding Economic Horizons

Mr. Sheikh stated that the growing economic significance of the ASEAN bloc presents substantial, untapped opportunities for Pakistani exporters and investors. He advocated for strengthened direct interaction between the private sectors of both regions through the exchange of business delegations, trade exhibitions, and the establishment of durable institutional linkages. This strategic approach is essential as Pakistan must pursue regional economic integration to boost exports, ensuring a more resilient national economy.

Strategic Initiatives for Growth

Mr. Saquib Fayyaz Magoon, Senior Vice President (SVP) of FPCCI, highlighted the considerable potential within these economic relations. He announced the FPCCI’s initiative to establish a dedicated Pakistan–ASEAN Business Council, designed to serve as a platform for facilitating B2B cooperation and trade delegations. Mr. Magoon identified key sectors for potential growth, including textiles, IT, food processing, agriculture and value addition, cold storage, engineering, two-wheelers, tourism, fisheries, and the burgeoning blue economy. Furthermore, he stressed that addressing logistics, particularly through improved air and maritime connectivity, is critical to facilitating tourism and efficient cargo movement.

Diplomatic and Commercial Integration

Former SVP of FPCCI, Mr. Hanif Gohar, echoed these sentiments, urging the transformation of existing cordial diplomatic relations into concrete commercial partnerships. He encouraged Pakistani companies to increase their participation in ASEAN exhibitions, facilitate regular dialogue between chambers, and sharpen the focus on market-oriented joint ventures. As experts note, food security at risk as farm productivity lags behind population growth, and enhanced regional cooperation could provide the necessary technology transfers to mitigate such challenges.

Global Stakeholder Engagement

The event drew participation from Consul Generals and diplomats of various ASEAN member states, alongside representatives from dialogue partner countries. The gathering also featured insights from international trade organizations, including JETRO and KOTRA, with Mr. Masatomo Itonaga and Mr. Sungwoon Hwang providing expert perspectives on navigating Asian markets. Additionally, experts like Mr. Naseem Rashed, Mr. Nadar Ali Ghanghro, and Ms. Maria Eugenia delivered presentations on sector-specific opportunities within the pharmaceutical and manufacturing landscapes.

The event concluded with a strong consensus on the need for sustained engagement to translate longstanding diplomatic ties into tangible economic gains. FPCCI reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating with diplomatic missions and stakeholders to build a mutually beneficial partnership, echoing the sentiment that Saif ur Rehman Emphasizes Continuous Systemic Change for National Prosperity as a prerequisite for long-term national success.

Caption: Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh, President FPCCI, is delivering his keynote address on the occasion of ASEAN DAY 2026 at Federation House, Karachi. Mr. Saquib Fayyaz Magoon, SVP FPCCI; Mr. Bashir Janmohammed, senior industrialist; high-profile diplomats of ASEAN member states and prominent business personalities were also present on the occasion in a large number.