Coordinator to PM, Cambodia minister discuss trade, other issues

ISLAMABAD: Rana Ihsaan Afzal Khan, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Commerce and Minister of Commerce of the Kingdom of Cambodia Cham Nimul held a high-level meeting on trade and other bilateral issues.

The Pakistan Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Association (PPMA) and the visiting Cambodian Trade Minister focused on accelerating pharmaceutical trade, streamlining regulatory processes, and exploring investment opportunities for establishing pharmaceutical operations in Cambodia.

During the interaction, PPMA leadership and member companies welcomed the Cambodian delegation and reaffirmed Pakistan’s growing footprint in Cambodia’s healthcare market, noting that Pakistani pharmaceutical exports are already reaching Cambodian hospitals and pharmacies through local partners.

The Cambodian side welcomed the industry’s interest and acknowledged the need for smoother trade processes.

Both sides agreed to maintain momentum through dedicated follow-up meetings and proposed enhanced linkage between pharmaceutical associations of the two countries to consolidate issues and present practical solutions.

Both sides shared commitment to translate strong trade potential into actionable outcomes—faster market access, streamlined clearance, and a viable pathway for Pakistani investment that supports Cambodia’s healthcare needs and regional competitiveness.

Earlier, Rana Ihsaan Khan welcomed the delegation at the State Lounge of Islamabad International Airport.

Accompanied by a senior official delegation, Cham Nimul is in Pakistan from February 10-11, 2026, to co-chair the second meeting of the Pakistan-Cambodia Joint Trade Committee (JTC). The inaugural JTC session was held in Phnom Penh on January 21, 2025, led by Pakistan’s Minister for Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan. The JTC serves as the primary platform to advance bilateral trade, investment, and economic cooperation.

Diplomatic ties between Pakistan and Cambodia were formalized on May 28, 1952, with Pakistan among the first nations to recognize Cambodia’s independence from French colonial rule. While bilateral trade volumes remain modest, Pakistan consistently enjoys a surplus. In FY 2024-25, Pakistan exported goods worth USD 29.2 million to Cambodia, against imports of USD 4.70 million, yielding a trade balance of USD 24.5 million (source: TDAS).

Key Pakistani exports include medicaments (USD 11.74 million), woven cotton fabrics (USD 5.23 million), cotton yarn (USD 2.72 million), and prepared leather products. Imports from Cambodia feature structures (USD 2.29 million), cocoa powder (USD 1.85 million), and select apparel items.

The first JTC explored collaboration in trade facilitation, investment, agriculture, textiles, customs, and related sectors, with discussions on a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA). This visit will feature the official announcement of the launch of PTA negotiations, designed to lower tariffs, improve market access, expand trade volumes, and promote joint ventures.

This engagement supports Pakistan’s strategy to build bilateral ties with ASEAN members amid efforts toward broader ASEAN integration. Cambodia, with its robust growth (around six percent GDP in 2024, driven by tourism and manufacturing) and participation in RCEP and multiple FTAs, offers complementary opportunities.

The Government of Pakistan is committed to elevating economic relations with Cambodia, fostering sustainable growth, and unlocking mutual benefits through enhanced trade and investment linkages.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026