The Sub-branch of the Pakistan-China Business Forum (PCBF) was recently inaugurated in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, marking a step forward to deepen economic and trade cooperation between China and Pakistan within the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) region.

Strategically located in one of China’s most dynamic economic hubs, the new branch will focus on spearheading efforts to enhance trade, investment and economic cooperation, according to a Gwadar Pro's report.

Its primary functions include connecting enterprises from both countries and fostering sectoral collaboration, particularly in information technology, textiles, e-commerce and manufacturing.

The office will also serve as a support base for Pakistani companies entering the vast YRD market.

It aims to build a comprehensive enterprise service platform that provides businesses with essential market information, policy advisory services and commercial matchmaking support.

Beyond economic objectives, the PCBF Hangzhou sub-branch will promote cultural exchanges and tourism cooperation. The initiative seeks to introduce more Chinese citizens to Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage and tourism resources, thereby enhancing people-to-people bonds alongside commercial links.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by Shehzad Ahmad Khan, Consul General of Pakistan in Shanghai, who highlighted the branch’s role in strengthening bilateral ties.

“As a key central city in the YRD, Hangzhou boasts vigorous innovation vitality and a developed e-commerce economy. It holds enormous cooperative potential with Pakistan in fields such as the digital economy, electronic products, and electric vehicle manufacturing,” he stated.

“Particularly, cloud storage and logistics can serve as a crucial bridge for cross-border sales in Pakistan’s commodity circulation chain.”

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP) — Pak-China