Pakistan-China economic cooperation: ICCI for promoting practical business models, JVs

ISLAMABAD: Federal capital’s business community has stressed the need for strengthening Pakistan-China economic cooperation by promoting practical business models, joint ventures, technology transfer and mutually beneficial investment opportunities for the business communities of both countries.

These views were expressed by President of the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) Mohammad Zikria Akbar Zia while talking to a five-member Chinese business and investment delegation led by Cindy Chen of MERA PC, an organization that regularly arranges visits of Chinese entrepreneurs to Pakistan, particularly to the ICCI, to explore opportunities for commercial cooperation and business development.

The participants agreed to pursue a structured framework for bilateral trade facilitation, institutional cooperation, and product information exchange and business development between Pakistani and Chinese stakeholders. The initiative is expected to strengthen direct business contacts, encourage market access and create new avenues for joint ventures and investment.

The ICCI President said that China is not only Pakistan’s trusted strategic partner but also a major source of technological advancement, industrial expertise and manufacturing excellence. He emphasized that translating the longstanding friendship between the two countries into tangible economic gains requires stronger business-to-business linkages, direct engagement between entrepreneurs and the development of workable joint venture models. He added that Pakistan’s strategic location, expanding consumer market, entrepreneurial talent and investment potential offer promising opportunities for Chinese enterprises seeking to expand their presence in the region.

Zia offered Chinese manufacturing companies the opportunity to display their products at the ICCI Display Centre, providing a platform for information sharing, product assessment and market exploration. He said this initiative would enable Pakistani businesses to evaluate Chinese products, identify suitable import opportunities and develop commercial partnerships. He further announced that ICCI was ready to establish a dedicated facilitation desk at its premises to guide members on visa procedures, import-export regulations and relevant Chinese trade policies, helping them navigate business processes more efficiently.

Cindy Chen, in her remarks, said that she had consistently promoted Pakistan as a promising destination for Chinese businesses and investors. She expressed the hope that an increasing number of Chinese entrepreneurs would visit Pakistan, explore its commercial potential and establish lasting business relationships with their Pakistani counterparts.

ICCI Vice President Mohammad Waqas Khan highlighted the importance of structured Business-to-Business (B2B) meetings in converting investment interest into concrete business transactions and assured the delegation of the Chamber’s full cooperation and facilitation.

ICCI Executive Member Abrar Ul Haq moderated the session and briefed the visiting delegation on the Chamber’s milestones and initiatives to promote trade and investment.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026