ISLAMABAD: A senior US diplomat has highlighted opportunities for American companies to invest in Pakistan’s critical minerals, information technology, agriculture and energy sectors, calling them key areas for growth and bilateral cooperation, the US Embassy said in a statement this week.
Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Baker made the remarks at a webinar hosted by the Business Council for International Understanding (BCIU) on Sept. 2, where US and Pakistani business leaders discussed the country’s evolving business environment.
In 2024, total US-Pakistan goods trade amounted to approximately $7.2 billion, with US exports to Pakistan valued at around $2.1 billion and imports at nearly $5.1 billion. On the foreign direct investment front, the United States remains one of Pakistan’s largest investors, with net US FDI inflows estimated at $227.7 million
“The opportunities are significant in critical minerals, ICT, agriculture, energy and infrastructure,” Baker said at the webinar, encouraging American companies to engage with the US Foreign Commercial Service team in Pakistan and pursue partnerships with local counterparts to build “profitable ventures” that could contribute to economic prosperity in both countries.
Baker also underlined Pakistan’s demographic and strategic advantages, noting its location, competitive labor force and vast consumer base.
“This is the fifth-largest country in the world, home to 250 million people, with 64 percent of the population under the age of 30,” she said.
“Pakistan’s GDP is about $412 billion, ranking 38th in the world, but Goldman Sachs projects it could reach $3.3 trillion by 2050, putting it among the top 10 to 15 economies globally.”
Her remarks came as Pakistan implements reforms under a $7 billion International Monetary Fund program approved in September 2024, focused on tax collection, energy sector restructuring and privatization of state-owned firms.
The measures have helped stabilize public finances, rebuild foreign exchange reserves and improve international credit ratings, with Fitch Ratings upgrading Pakistan’s outlook to positive in mid-2025. Officials say the steps are crucial for restoring investor confidence and laying the groundwork for sustainable growth in the South Asian nation.
