Pakistan’s proposed Preferential Trade Agreement with Tajikistan has been delayed again after Tajik authorities raised concerns about possible revenue losses.
The issue was discussed during the third session of the Pakistan–Tajikistan Joint Working Group on Trade, Investment, and Transport, held virtually after a gap of four years. Both sides reviewed progress on the long-pending agreement.
Pakistan informed the meeting that draft proposals had already been shared, but Tajikistan said it is not ready to move forward at this stage. Instead, it suggested creating a mid-term roadmap for economic cooperation before signing any formal agreement.
The two countries also pointed out differences in trade data. Pakistan reported bilateral trade at around $29 million for the fiscal year 2024–25, while Tajikistan recorded trade at $43.02 million for 2025.
Talks also covered regional connectivity, especially the proposed Pakistan–China–Tajikistan road corridor. Pakistan noted that Tajikistan has not yet joined the Quadrilateral Agreement on Transit Transport, while Tajik officials asked for more clarity on customs procedures.
Both sides discussed potential cooperation in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, textiles, and agriculture, including plans for joint ventures and an agro-logistics center.
They also agreed to improve digital coordination through data-sharing systems and continue regular meetings to support future trade growth.
