ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Monday rolled out a warm welcome for Chinese investors, especially in agriculture, as the government said large investments worth millions of dollars are likely across 10 major sectors under the next phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).
Speaking at the Pakistan-China Investment Conference, Food Security Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain said Pakistan is committed to offering a safe, transparent and business-friendly environment for Chinese companies, particularly in farming and food-related industries.
“The government’s objective was not merely to attract investment but to make Pakistan a place where Chinese enterprises could grow, innovate and succeed alongside Pakistani partners,” he said. “Together, Pakistan and China can push the boundaries of innovation, transform agri-technology, strengthen food security and reshape the economic landscape of the region.”
“Pakistan and China are more than strategic partners. We are rightly known as iron brothers,” he said.The minister said Pakistan exported goods worth about $2.38 billion to China in the 2024-25 fiscal year, while imports from China reached $16.3 billion, showing strong trade ties despite global economic challenges.
He said CPEC Phase-I has been completed, while Phase-II is now focused on factories, technology transfer, renewable energy and projects that benefit ordinary people. He added that 41 agreements signed in September 2025 cover modern farming, livestock, fisheries and new agricultural technologies.
“These initiatives are not just projects; they are lifelines of growth, confidence and mutual trust,” he said.Secretary Food Security Saif Anjum said Pakistan’s agriculture sector has big potential, especially because low productivity and poor infrastructure can be improved through Chinese technology and joint ventures. He said the government plans to double agricultural exports within five years.
Board of Investment official Arfa Iqbal said Pakistan allows foreign investment in all sectors and lets investors take their profits back home. She said new reforms are making it easier to do business.
Meanwhile, a Federal Board of Revenue official said digital customs systems and zero-duty incentives on seeds, fertilisers and farm machinery are helping farmers and exporters grow and compete globally.
