Indonesia, Pakistan agree to bolster trade in spices, agri products

KARACHI: The Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia in Karachi, in collaboration with the Directorate of Primary Product Export Development, Ministry of Trade of the Republic of Indonesia, successfully hosted the Indonesia-Pakistan Trade Forum: Business Pitching Online Meeting, bridging the geographical gap between Indonesian exporters and Pakistani importers to bolster trade in spices and agricultural products in a productive and engaging session. This event is part of the Indonesian Ministry of Trade’s planned visit to Karachi.

The forum was headlined by Mudzakir MA, Indonesian Consul General, and Director of National Export Development, Dr Miftah Farid. The event utilised a hybrid format, welcoming Pakistani business leaders in person at the Indonesian Consulate General in Karachi while connecting them virtually with Indonesian exporters via Zoom.

“Indonesia and Pakistan may be geographically far apart, but when it comes to spices, we speak the same language,” said the Consul General in his opening remarks.

“Spices like cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and pepper are more than just products; they are part of our shared daily lives, cuisine, and culture.”

The forum focused on the strategic importance of Karachi as a commercial hub and Indonesia’s role as a leading global producer of high-quality spices. Beyond product presentations, the sessions aimed to build mutual understanding and discuss the realities of international trade, including logistics, shipping costs, and port procedures.

Key highlights and recommendations from the forum included:

a) Emphasis on Long-Term Partnerships – Moving beyond single transactions to sustainable trade built on consistent quality and reliability

b) Risk Management – Encouraging trial orders and manageable volumes to build mutual trust between new partners

c) Clear Standards – Establishing precise specifications for agricultural products from the outset to avoid regulatory hurdles

d) Facilitation – The Consulate reaffirmed its role as a facilitator, providing a professional and responsible environment for business matchmaking

While the session encouraged dialogue and contract exchange, the primary objective remained fostering long-term professional relationships.

“What matters is that you leave with new connections and new possibilities,” added the consul general. With open dialogue and a long-term mindset, cooperation between Indonesia and Pakistan in the agricultural sector is poised for significant growth in 2026.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2026