Islamabad: Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan emphasized the need for expedited regulatory approvals for Pakistani pharmaceutical companies seeking entry into the Ethiopian market. This was part of broader discussions on enhancing bilateral trade, investment, and economic cooperation between Pakistan and Ethiopia.

According to Press Information Department, the discussions occurred during a meeting with Ethiopian Ambassador to Pakistan, Dr. Oumer Hussein Oba, at the Minister’s office in Islamabad. The meeting was attended by Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Commerce and Industries Rana Ihsaan Afzal, Federal Secretary for Commerce Jawad Paul, and senior ministry officials.

Jam Kamal Khan pointed out the potential of Pakistan’s pharmaceutical industry in expanding exports to Africa and underlined the significance of timely regulatory approvals for strengthening commercial ties with Ethiopia. He called for improved coordination between regulatory authorities and diplomatic missions to facilitate market access and resolve pending issues.

The Ethiopian Ambassador assured that the registration issues with Ethiopian health authorities had been addressed positively. Secretary Commerce Jawad Paul stressed the need to expedite the visit of an Ethiopian technical team to Pakistan for inspections, which would aid in accelerating approvals for Pakistani pharmaceutical exports.

Discussions also covered Ethiopia’s World Trade Organization accession process, with both sides recognizing the need for reciprocal market access and confidence-building measures. The Minister highlighted Ethiopia’s infrastructure development as a gateway for Pakistani businesses to East African markets, while the Ambassador reiterated Ethiopia’s commitment to strengthening economic relations with Pakistan.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to expedite pending matters and enhance bilateral engagement to create tangible trade and investment opportunities.