Trade procedures, non-tariff barriers: 'Indian market relatively closed for Pakistani products'

"Nevertheless, Pakistan has so far not granted MFN status to India despite repeated demands. The market of Pakistan is open for Indian businessmen as compared to Indian market, which is relatively closed for Pakistani products due to procedures and non-tariff barriers."
This was stated by Iftikhar Ali, Vice President of Saarc Chamber of Commerce & Industry, who chaired the session on 'How to Enhance Indo-Pak Trade' held at a hotel in Mumbai on September 27, 2011. According to a statement issued by the FPCCI here on Wednesday, many prominent business delegates from Pakistan and their Indian counterparts attended the session, who had detailed deliberations on various aspects for enhancing bilateral trade, which is being hampered due to non-settlement of certain issues.
"The presence of such a large number of business leaders from Pakistan in the official delegation of the Commerce Minister shows the seriousness of the public and private sectors of Pakistan to augment economic co-operation with India," Iftikhar said, adding that "we have come with open heart and mind, and are confident for reciprocity from our Indian counterparts". He appreciated the vision of the Commerce Minister of Pakistan regarding serious consideration to give India MFN status. "Nevertheless, India is a favourite country. The only need is to facilitate trade and economic co-operation," he said.