Thai Envoy Pushes for FTA to Double $1.1B Trade with Pakistan

Rongvudhi Virabutr, Thailand’s Ambassador to Pakistan, has highlighted the need to enhance both countries’ economies, mainly by setting up a Free Trade Agreement to take Thailand’s $1.1 billion export to Pakistan to a much higher figure of $2.2 billion. During the meeting, the ambassador pointed out that trade went up to $1.8 billion during the pandemic, meaning there are still many untapped business opportunities between the two countries.

The envoy pointed out the importance of:

• More direct flights are now available between Thailand and Pakistan.
• Making it easier to get visas could attract more visitors.
• Greater partnership in various fields of the economy

According to Bakhtawari, Pakistan is all set to have a meaningful impact on the regional economy, and improved air links will help build closer links with ASEAN countries. He requested Thailand help Pakistan gain the status of a dialogue partner in the ASEAN Regional Forum.

During the meeting, business experts pointed out some areas worth considering together, including digital investment platforms, interior design, the food industry, and construction.