Kazakhstan and Pakistan signed a series of trade and transit agreements during a high-level business forum in Karachi, paving the way for expanded commercial cooperation and long-term logistics development between the two countries.

Over 500 representatives from business and government gathered in Karachi for the Kazakhstan-Pakistan Business Forum, highlighting a shared commitment to strengthening economic ties. The event focused on practical partnerships, culminating in the signing of several commercial agreements.

Among the key deals was a $10 million contract between Kazakhstan’s Optima Development and Pakistan’s Friesland Campina Engro for the supply of dehydrated milk fat - a key ingredient in cheese, yogurt, and confectionery production in Kazakhstan.

“This is one of the first deals of this scale with Pakistan,” said Optima Development CEO Zhanat Basanov. “We see this not as a one-off shipment but as the beginning of a strategic, long-term partnership. With a population of 240 million, Pakistan holds enormous export potential for Kazakhstan.”

Another major milestone of the forum was the signing of a Transit Trade Agreement, granting Kazakhstan access to Pakistan’s ports of Karachi and Gwadar. This move is expected to open new transport and logistics routes and significantly deepen bilateral economic cooperation.

According to QazTrade, Kazakhstan’s trade turnover with Pakistan grew by 2.1% in 2023–2024 to $53.6 million. Kazakhstan’s exports - mostly agricultural products like onions, garlic, flax seeds, legumes, and metal structures - more than doubled to $11.8 million. Imports from Pakistan reached $41.9 million, including citrus fruits, pharmaceuticals, and textiles.

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