20/04/2025
-India Trade Boom: Where Does Pakistan Stand?
In recent months, China has issued over 86,000 visas to Indian investors and experts, not to build simple footwear or garment factories—but to establish high-tech industries in partnership with Chinese companies. This expansion indicates a strategic collaboration, not rivalry. The belief that China and India are arch enemies is a misconception when their bilateral trade volume exceeds $125 billion annually—with India facing a $100 billion trade deficit.
For Pakistan, this is both a wake-up call and a window of opportunity. If we remain mere importers, China will flood our markets with low-cost goods—weakening our already struggling local industry. Instead, Pakistan must aim to become a manufacturing partner, especially in emerging fields like electronics, semiconductors, renewable energy, and AI tech.
With China allocating $275 billion to support its industries, it's time for Pakistan to attract Chinese investment—not for warehouses or retail—but for joint ventures in technology and manufacturing. Our skilled labor force needs opportunities, not handouts. Smart policy moves today can secure Pakistan’s economic future tomorrow.
What Should Pakistan Do?
Encourage joint ventures with Chinese investors
Establish Hi-Tech Economic Zones
Upskill the local workforce
Revamp regulations to attract long-term investment
Diversify the China-Pakistan trade beyond imports
