Pakistan, Cambodia second JTC meeting to accelerate trade

February 09, 2026 (MLN): Pakistan and Cambodia economic relations are gaining renewed momentum as both countries intensify efforts to deepen trade and commercial cooperation.

Rana Ihsaan Afzal Khan, Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Commerce, welcomed Cham Nimul, Minister of Commerce of the Kingdom of Cambodia, at the State Lounge of Islamabad International Airport, said a press release issued.

Accompanied by a senior delegation, Cham Nimul is visiting Pakistan from February 10–11, 2026, to co-chair the second session of the Pakistan-Cambodia Joint Trade Committee (JTC).

The inaugural JTC meeting was convened in Phnom Penh on January 21, 2025, under the leadership of Pakistan’s Minister for Commerce, Mr. Jam Kamal Khan.

The JTC functions as the principal mechanism for strengthening bilateral trade, investment flows, and broader economic collaboration.

The first JTC meeting focused on areas such as trade facilitation, agriculture, textiles, customs cooperation, and potential investment partnerships, including preliminary dialogue on a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA).

The current visit is expected to formally announce the commencement of PTA negotiations aimed at reducing tariffs, widening market access, increasing trade volumes, and encouraging joint business ventures.

This initiative aligns with Pakistan’s broader objective of expanding economic engagement with ASEAN member states and pursuing deeper regional integration.

The two nations established diplomatic relations on May 28, 1952, with Pakistan being among the earliest countries to acknowledge Cambodia’s independence after the end of French colonial rule.

Although overall trade volumes are still relatively limited, Pakistan maintains a consistent trade surplus.

During FY 2024–25, Pakistan’s exports to Cambodia reached approximately $29.2 million, while imports stood at about $4.70 million, resulting in a positive trade balance of nearly $24.5 million.

Major Pakistani exports include medicaments, woven cotton fabrics, cotton yarn, and leather goods, whereas imports from Cambodia largely consist of structural materials, cocoa powder, and selected apparel products.

Cambodia’s steady economic growth approximately 6% GDP expansion in 2024 driven by tourism and manufacturing along with its participation in RCEP and several free trade agreements, presents complementary opportunities for both sides.

The Government of Pakistan remains focused on advancing mutually beneficial trade and investment ties with Cambodia to promote long-term, sustainable economic development.

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