ISLAMABAD ( WNAM REPORT ): United Business Group (UBG) Central Core Committee Member Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari has strongly criticized the 29% tariff imposed by the United States on Pakistani products, calling it an *unjust and discriminatory measure that will negatively impact not only the export sector but also the overall economy. Pakistan exports approximately $7.26 billion worth of goods to the U.S. annually, and this decision could prove to be devastating for Pakistani exporters.
In contrast, India has been subjected to only a 26% tariff, highlighting an unequal trade policy that gives Indian traders an unfair advantage in the U.S. market.This situation is detrimental to Pakistan’s economy and demands immediate diplomatic intervention.
Speaking to a delegation of the business community yesterday, Ahsan Bakhtawari stated, “We recommend that the Pakistani government reduce tariffs on U.S. imports to 0%. This move will strengthen Pakistan’s position in trade negotiations with the U.S. administration and help mitigate the impact of the 29% tariff imposed on Pakistani products.”
He further emphasized that if Pakistan can reduce tariffs on U.S. imports by 58%, then the U.S. must also reciprocate by eliminating the 29% tariff on Pakistani goods to maintain trade balance between the two countries.
Ahsan Bakhtawari stressed the need for Pakistan to secure a better and more balanced trade agreement with the U.S.in order to further stabilize its exports in the global market. He pointed out that key export sectors such as textiles, sports goods, leather, surgical instruments, and football manufacturing could suffer significant losses due to this tariff hike.
“Pakistan is a leading producer of footballs, and with the upcoming FIFA World Cup, our products hold a prominent place in the global market. If unnecessary tariffs are imposed, Pakistan’s export industry could face irreparable damage,”he warned.
Ahsan Bakhtawari also highlighted that Pakistan’s export sector is fully prepared to achieve the 60 billion USD export target under the ‘Uraan Pakistan’ vision.However, achieving this goal will require a favorable trade agreement with the U.S.that ensures Pakistani products remain competitive in the global market.
He acknowledged the government’s commitment to addressing the concerns of traders and industrialists and expressed hope that immediate steps would be taken to protect Pakistan’s export sector. “This is not just a problem for traders and industrialists; it affects the entire economy and the livelihoods of millions of workers. That’s why this issue must be treated as a top priority at the diplomatic and trade policy level,” he said.
Ahsan Bakhtawari urged the government, the Ministry of Commerce, the Ministry of Finance, and the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) to formulate a unified strategy to push for the removal of this unjust tariff through diplomatic channels and ensure the protection of Pakistan’s trade interests.
He warned that if this issue is not resolved soon, it could have severe negative consequences for Pakistan’s economy, affecting not just the business community but also the general public.
