Pakistan and UK Set to Address Non-Tariff Barriers in Trade Talks

Pakistan and the United Kingdom are preparing for a significant trade dialogue aimed at reducing non-tariff barriers (NTBs) to boost bilateral commerce. The upcoming UK-Pakistan Trade Dialogue, a ministerial platform, will focus on practical cooperation, technical assistance, and regulatory alignment to streamline trade processes. This initiative seeks to strengthen economic ties and enhance market access for businesses in both nations.

Key challenges include stringent UK technical standards, particularly in textiles and pharmaceuticals, which pose difficulties for Pakistani small- and medium-sized enterprises due to high certification costs. Agricultural exports face hurdles from sanitary and phytosanitary measures, while complex post-Brexit customs procedures cause delays. Additionally, UK consumer preferences for sustainably sourced products add pressure on Pakistani exporters. On Pakistan’s side, inefficiencies in export procedures and infrastructure bottlenecks further complicate trade.

The dialogue aims to address these issues by fostering collaboration and simplifying compliance requirements. The UK, Pakistan’s largest European trading partner, sees bilateral trade at £4.7 billion, a figure both sides view as having room for growth. Opportunities in sectors like information technology and agriculture are expected to be highlighted, with Pakistan also seeking to attract UK investment under the UK’s 2035 growth policy.

Recent discussions on platforms like X emphasize the urgency of resolving these barriers to maximize the benefits of the UK’s Developing Countries Trading Scheme, which grants duty-free access to Pakistani goods. By tackling NTBs, both countries aim to create a more competitive and efficient trade environment, benefiting businesses and economies alike.

Published in SouthAsianDesk, July 1st, 2025

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