LAHORE, Oct 4: Chief Executive Officer of the Pakistan Furniture Council (PFC) Mian Kashif Ashfaq, Tamgha-i-Imtiaz, said on Sunday that Pakistan’s strategic geographic location and transit potential could pave the way for a pivotal regional trade corridor, strengthening connectivity among South Asia, Central Asia, China and the Middle East.

Chairing a meeting of the PFC Board of Directors here, he said Pakistan was uniquely positioned at the crossroads of major regional markets, offering enormous opportunities in transit trade, warehousing, transportation and logistics services.

He said the government should accord top priority to developing modern transport corridors, upgrading border infrastructure and simplifying customs procedures to facilitate the smooth movement of regional cargo.

Mian Kashif said efficient transit facilities would reduce transportation costs, improve delivery times and make Pakistani routes more attractive to international traders.

He said enhanced connectivity with the Central Asian Republics could open new avenues for Pakistani exporters, particularly manufacturers of furniture, textiles, engineering goods, pharmaceuticals and agricultural products.

The PFC chief called for stronger coordination among federal and provincial authorities, customs, ports and the private sector to remove bottlenecks affecting transit trade.

He said a comprehensive, long-term transit trade strategy, backed by digital customs systems and improved logistics infrastructure, could help Pakistan expand exports, attract investment and create thousands of employment opportunities.

Mian Kashif Ashfaq said improved regional connectivity would also reinforce Pakistan’s role as a major economic gateway linking South Asia with Central Asia, China and the Middle East.