Islamabad: A recent trade and investment conference in Seoul has drawn significant attention as Pakistan and the Republic of Korea move closer to finalizing a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). The event saw the signing of six business-to-business Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) between companies from both nations, marking a potential increase in bilateral economic activities.

According to Press Information Department: The conference brought together 91 Korean and 82 Pakistani business representatives, including members of the Pakistani diaspora in Korea and delegates from key Pakistani chambers of commerce. Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan, addressing the gathering via video link, emphasized the successful conclusion of the first round of negotiations on CEPA, with a second round anticipated soon. Khan highlighted the potential benefits of the agreement for Pakistani exporters and encouraged business communities from both countries to forge partnerships ahead of the deal’s finalization.

The conference featured a welcome address by the Pakistani Ambassador to Korea and remarks from the Vice Chairman of the Daegu Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Officials from the Special Investment Facilitation Council and the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan briefed participants on Pakistan’s export potential in sectors such as textiles, leather goods, and IT services.

The six MOUs, signed during the event’s business-to-business sessions, cover sectors including salt, cosmetics, and oil and sesame seed trade. These agreements are expected to pave the way for more definitive commercial contracts.

Organized with the support of the Pakistan Business Association of Korea and the Embassy of Pakistan in Seoul, the conference aims to strengthen economic ties between the two countries. The Embassy’s Commercial Wing will continue to facilitate Korean investors and trading partners, with plans for another conference in March 2027 to capitalize on the momentum once CEPA is finalized.