ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s commerce minister has met with key UK businesses and trade bodies in Birmingham, promoting deeper commercial ties and encouraging new investment in sectors beyond traditional textile exports, the state-run Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) reported on Friday. 

Jam Kamal Khan, who is on an official visit to the United Kingdom, on Thursday held meetings with the Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce, major Pakistani food retailers and British firms in the Midlands, pitching Pakistan’s strengths in processed foods, pharmaceuticals, leather goods, and information technology.

Pakistan exported £2.5 billion worth of goods and services to the UK in 2024, while importing £2.2 billion, according to the UK government. Total trade between the two countries stands at £4.7 billion, up 7.3 percent from the previous year.

“Khan highlighted Pakistan’s readiness to diversify its export basket in alignment with the UK’s industrial needs,” APP reported. 

The minister emphasized Pakistan’s value proposition in supplying Birmingham’s advanced manufacturing and automotive sectors, citing “cost-effective production capabilities and expertise in light engineering and metal fabrication.”

During his engagements, the minister also “spotlighted Pakistan as a reliable partner” in Birmingham’s electric vehicle (EV) supply chains and renewable energy push. 

“He underscored opportunities under Pakistan’s National EV Policy... in areas such as battery technology and electric drivetrains,” APP added.

The visit also included a stop at Birmingham City Football Club, where the minister discussed community outreach and Pakistan’s role in manufacturing football equipment used in top global leagues.

Later, at food distributor Nouvo, which supplies major UK supermarkets, Khan met with retailers of Pakistani products and explored expanding halal-certified and ethnic food lines in the British market.

“These engagements underscore Pakistan’s renewed emphasis on industrial linkages, regional value chains, and diaspora-led commercial diplomacy,” the APP statement said.

The trip is part of Pakistan’s broader strategy to deepen trade relations with key partners.

While the UK remains one of Pakistan’s top European export destinations, the country is also pursuing tariff concessions with the United States and courting Gulf investors under its Special Investment Facilitation Council.