Pakistan, Czech Republic seek stronger trade ties under GSP Plus

April 15, 2026 (MLN):  Pakistan and the Czech Republic need to further strengthen their bilateral trade and make better use of existing export opportunities under the GSP Plus framework to enhance economic growth and commercial cooperation.

Addressing a meeting at the Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce & Industry (FCCI), the Ambassador of the Czech Republic to Pakistan, Mr Ladislav Steinhübel, said that Czechoslovakia had been a highly industrialized country before the Second World War.

He noted that after World War-II it initially exported sugar and textile mills, but later shifted its focus towards automobile exports. He added that around 80% of Czech Republic’s exports are directed to European Union countries, with Germany and Austria being the major destinations, APP reported.

He further informed that nearly 2,000 Pakistanis are currently working in the Czech Republic, while a significant number of Pakistani students are also pursuing education in Czech universities.

Responding to a question, he said that the Czech Republic could export shuttleless looms to Pakistan; however, achieving this goal requires active participation from the private sectors of both countries.

He said his country is keen to expand exports to Pakistan and emphasized that direct dialogue between relevant stakeholders is essential. He also stressed the need for exchange of trade delegations to strengthen bilateral trade ties.

Deputy Head of Mission Ms. Michaela and Honorary Consul General Mr. Kamal Monno also participated in the meeting.

Earlier, President FCCI Farooq Yousaf Sheikh welcomed the guests and introduced Faisalabad and the Chamber. He said that Faisalabad contributes around 60% of Pakistan’s total textile exports.

He described the current bilateral trade volume between Pakistan and the Czech Republic as inadequate and called for practical steps to improve it. He also highlighted that the lack of a strong banking system and absence of direct air connectivity are negatively affecting exports.

Vice President FCCI Engr. Asim Munir, Executive Members Waheed Khaliq Ramay, Muhammad Ali, Umar Farooq Kahlon, Shahid Majeed, Tariq Mahmood Qadri, Mirza Zahid Iqbal, Nabeel Yousaf, along with Dr. Habib Aslam Gaba, Zahid Butt, and other members took part in the question-answer session.

Later, Senior Vice President FCCI Naveed Akram Sheikh presented the vote of thanks. FCCI President Farooq Yousaf Sheikh also decorated Ambassador Ladislav Steinhübel with a commemorative collar pin marking the Chamber’s 50th anniversary and presented him a shield. The ambassador also recorded his impressions in the FCCI Visitors’ Book.

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