ISLAMABAD, Jan 17: Pakistan is considering a string of measures to be taken up with the Polish authorities for consideration to reduce trade imbalance between the two countries.

An official told Dawn on Saturday that the decision was taken following the move by Poland to become a member of the European Union that might help Pakistan in increasing its exports to other member countries as well.

According to the proposed measures, the Polish side might be requested to buy more goods from Pakistan and encourage their private sector to enter into joint ventures with their Pakistani counterparts in the fields of mutual interest for third country markets or on buy back arrangement.

"We may also offer textile fabrics and other requirements of Polish textile industry and also suggest joint ventures and co- production in the fields of textiles and leather products manufacturing industries to realize the potential of exports to the EU," the official said.

It was proposed that there was a possibility of collaboration in industrial and defence sectors, through transfer of technology. This might be explored for promotion of cooperation in this field.

The state sector in Poland is currently being privatized. Pakistani industrialists with experience in running light industries can invest in these industries.

It was also proposed that Pakistani companies might set up warehouses in Poland in order to establish their presence in the market before Poland joins the EU in the near future.

Pakistan has been participating in reputable trade fairs in Poland, specially "POZNAN Fashion Week". Poland exhibitors and trade visitors may participate in trade fairs held in Pakistan, the official added.

According to statistics, Pakistan's exports to Poland stood at $18.848 million during the year 2001-02 against $7.580 million in 2000-01, showing an increase of 148 per cent.

And Poland's exports to Pakistan stood at $9.715 million during the period under review against $11.836 million of the corresponding year, showing a decrease of 17.9 per cent.