ISLAMABAD: A parliamentary committee on Wednesday expressed se­­r­­ious concern over Pak­i­stan’s persistent trade deficit with China and other Free Trade Agreement (FTA) partners and called for a comprehensive assessment of the underlying factors contributing to the imbalance.

The National Assembly Standing Committee on Commerce reviewed tariff reforms, export promotion measures, performance of key trade-related entities, trade relations with major trading partners, and proposed legislative amendments. MNA Jawed Hanif chaired the meeting.

The parliamentary committee further directed that relevant information concerning the Saindak project and mineral exports be furnished to enable an assessment of whether Pakistan was deriving an appropriate economic return from its mineral resources.

The committee was informed about the proposed GSP+ scheme starting Jan 1, 2027, including the applicable transition period and compliance requirements.

Mr Javed directed the Ministry of Commerce to furnish a detailed briefing on Pakistan’s preparedness, including the opportunities, challenges, and measures required to maximise the scheme’s benefits.

The committee directed the ministry to furnish detailed presentations and comprehensive reports on the Export Development Fund (EDF), GSP+, Pakistan’s trade deficit with China, Malaysia and Indonesia, and mineral exports.

Published in Dawn, August 13th, 2026