ISLAMABAD — Pakistan is looking to significantly boost its trade and economic cooperation with the Maldives, focusing heavily on halal food, agriculture, textiles, and the tourism sector, according to Pakistani Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan.

Speaking at the closing session of the Pakistan-Maldives Business Forum in Islamabad on Friday, Khan emphasized that Islamabad is keen to expand its exports to the South Asian archipelago. The business forum coincided with the landmark three-day official visit of Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, who arrived in Islamabad on Tuesday.

The renewed economic push follows high-level talks on Thursday between President Muizzu and Pakistani Prime Minister, where both leaders set an ambitious target to scale up bilateral trade from a modest $13 million to $200 million within the next two years.

Highlighting the Maldives as a crucial market for food supplies, construction materials, and health care products, Khan noted the high demand driven by the Maldivian tourism and hospitality industry.

"As a major agriculture producer with a diverse manufacturing base, Pakistan, Excellency, is well placed to meet these requirements," Khan said. "Our expertise is in offering quality rice, meat, halal food, and processed agricultural products, serving both Maldivian households and the hospitality sector."

In addition to food and agriculture, Pakistan aims to cater to the Maldives’ health care needs through its robust pharmaceutical and medical equipment sectors. Khan pointed out that Pakistan is already a major supplier of high-grade surgical instruments to European markets. Furthermore, he expressed immense pride in Pakistan's globally competitive textile sector, noting that local industries are eager to meet the strict quality standards, compliance, and specific certifications required by the Maldivian hospitality market.

Beyond goods, the two nations are actively exploring collaborative opportunities in tourism. During Thursday’s discussions, President Muizzu extended invitations to Pakistani pharmaceutical manufacturers and health care providers to invest in the Maldives' expanding hospital and medical infrastructure. He also encouraged Pakistani construction and engineering firms to engage in housing, land reclamation, and large-scale infrastructure projects.

The diplomatic milestone—marked by the exchange of 20 bilateral cooperation agreements spanning aviation, agriculture, health, tourism, and maritime security—underscores a new chapter in bilateral ties. President Muizzu’s visit is the first by a Maldivian head of state in 11 years, perfectly aligning with the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Pakistan and the Maldives.

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