Pakistan and the Netherlands discussed expanding bilateral trade, investment, and business partnerships in textiles, IT, agriculture, food processing, engineering, and skilled workforce development at a business dinner hosted by Commerce Secretary Jawad Paul for a visiting Dutch delegation led by Ms. Merlin Melles.

Ambassador Robert‑Jan Siegert noted the Netherlands is Pakistan’s second‑largest EU export market, with bilateral trade at US$1.9 billion, largely driven by Pakistani exports. He emphasized expanding Dutch exports and investments in Pakistan.

The Ministry of Commerce highlighted Pakistan’s EU trade ties, GSP Plus benefits, and potential in textiles, agriculture, sports goods, and value‑added manufacturing. Dutch entrepreneurs praised Pakistan’s industrial capacity and expressed interest in partnerships in software, engineering, staffing, and agricultural processing.

Both sides agreed to strengthen private‑sector linkages, pursue joint ventures, and maintain regular dialogue to translate commercial interest into practical cooperation.