Pakistan to send high-level delegation to US for trade talks on tariffs

Pakistan has decided to send a high-level delegation to the United States to promote trade relations and negotiate new tariffs imposed on imports, officials said Tuesday.

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif directed that the delegation include prominent business figures and exporters, aiming to establish a mutually beneficial trade strategy following discussions with U.S. officials.

Donald Trump recently announced sweeping tariffs on imports from various countries. A baseline tariff of 10% was imposed on all imports, effective April 5, 2025.

However, some countries face higher "reciprocal tariffs," which match or partially match the tariffs those countries impose on U.S. goods. For instance, India faces a 26% tariff, China 34%, Vietnam 46%, and Pakistan 29%.

The decision was made during a review meeting in Islamabad, where officials assessed Pakistan’s exports and the impact of the new U.S. tariffs. The meeting, chaired by Sharif, was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar, along with several federal ministers, advisors, and senior officials.

"Pakistan’s trade relationship with the United States spans decades, and the government is committed to strengthening this partnership," Sharif said during the meeting.

Officials presented reports from the Steering Committee and Working Group outlining strategies to address the tariff challenges. Alternative trade policies were also discussed, while Pakistan’s embassy in Washington continued engagements with U.S. authorities.

Sharif emphasized that the delegation must include key business leaders to ensure productive negotiations with the United States.

The exact composition and timing of the delegation’s visit have not yet been announced.