Bureau Report
KARACHI: Pakistan-Malaysia Friendship Association (PMFA) President Shahid Javed Qureshi has urged the government to review the Malaysia-Pakistan Closer Economic Partnership Agreement (MPCEPA) to improve market access, boost exports and attract investment.
He said bilateral trade reached about $1.55 billion in 2025, but there is considerable scope to expand, and stronger ties with Malaysia could help Pakistan expand its footprint in ASEAN markets.
Qureshi called for moving beyond traditional trade patterns toward value addition, market diversification and regional integration. He stressed addressing market-access barriers and improving competitiveness so businesses in both countries benefit fully.
He urged exporters to focus on higher value-added products including halal food, seafood, branded textiles and leather goods, with greater attention to quality, branding and international certification.
He identified digital economy, sustainable industries and technology as promising areas for joint ventures and investment.
Qureshi said Pakistan’s strategic location and CPEC offer a chance to become a commercial bridge linking Southeast Asia with Central Asia, Middle East and Western China, if supported by trade facilitation and public-private coordination. He also called for cooperation in education, training, research and tourism.
