Danish envoy, Jam discuss ways to boost economic cooperation

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan, held a meeting with the Ambassador of Denmark, Maja Derrous Mortensen, to discuss ways to enhance bilateral trade, investment cooperation and energy sector collaboration between the two countries.

During the meeting, the minister highlighted Pakistan’s ongoing stabilisation measures under the IMF program, noting that temporary tax increases had created pressure on businesses but were necessary to meet revenue targets.

He assured that the government intends to gradually ease the taxation burden and improve the overall business environment.

He added that repatriation issues have largely been resolved, foreign reserves are stabilising, and remittances have shown strong growth.

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The two sides had an in-depth discussion on Pakistan’s energy sector, particularly the industrial shift toward solar and renewable solutions that has reduced demand on the national grid.

The Danish ambassador briefed the minister on Denmark’s ongoing three-year partnership with Pakistani institutions to support energy planning, data systems and grid efficiency.

Both sides agreed that bringing industries back to the grid — or expanding new industrial demand—is essential for long-term sustainability. The Ambassador also shared Danish business interest in Pakistan’s agricultural and IT sectors, noting that some companies remain cautious due to legal and certification constraints.

The Minister encouraged Danish firms to explore Pakistan’s fast-growing IT talent pool, which produces about 80,000 graduates annually, and offers competitive operating costs.

The minister invited Denmark to participate in upcoming trade exhibitions in Lahore and Karachi, expressing hope that improvements in travel advisories would enable greater participation.

He also briefed the Ambassador on Pakistan’s rapidly growing cosmetics and personal care industry, which has recently gained traction in African markets due to competitive pricing and expanding product variety. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening commercial linkages, supporting business-to-business engagement, and exploring new avenues of cooperation in trade, renewable energy, IT, and market expansion.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2025