Philippine Charge d’Affaires Maria Agnes M. Cervantes has said that her country is keen to increase bilateral trade with Pakistan to the maximum.

Addressing the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry, she urged the exporters to explore the untapped trade markets of the Philippines. There is a huge potential to increase the mutual trade volume, she said and added that both countries have been enjoying cordial trade relations.

Maria Agnes showed great interest in the SCCI's documentary “Sialkot, the City of Progressive People” screened during the meeting.

She visited Hilbro International (Pvt) Ltd, a leading manufacturer of surgical and dental instruments, and showed a keen interest in the production process. She also witnessed the craftsmanship of Sialkot-based artisans.

SCCI President Abdul Ghafoor Malik speaking at the occasion said that a significant increase in trade between the two countries is possible. He said that Sialkot is an important economic hub and export-oriented city. Its exporters have set unique examples of completing several mega projects on a self-help basis, he added.

The SCCI president stated that the total trade volume between the two countries in 2021 is $217 million, which needs to be enhanced through mutual effort.

He said that Sialkot produced specialised products that are supplied to the top brands all over the world. "We produce sports goods, surgical instruments, leather products, gloves of all sorts, textile items, sportswear, martial arts uniforms and accessories, musical instruments, kitchenware, tableware, hollowware, hunting knives, table cutlery, military uniform badges, etc.”

 Credit : Independent News Pakistan-WealthPk