Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Baker addressed a webinar organized by the Business Council for International Understanding (BCIU) on September 2, focusing on opportunities for American companies in Pakistan. The online event included business leaders and financial institutions from both the United States and Pakistan who discussed recent changes in Pakistan’s business climate and economic reforms.
Baker commended the Sharif government’s efforts to reform the economy and create an environment that welcomes investors. She emphasized that U.S. businesses could play a significant role in supporting Pakistan’s stability and growth. Baker pointed out several of Pakistan’s advantages, such as its large population, competitive labor costs, and strategic geographic position.
“This is the fifth-largest country in the world, home to 250 million people, with 64 percent of the population under the age of 30. It’s one of the world’s largest and youngest consumer markets. Pakistan’s GDP is about $412 billion, ranking 38th in the world, but Goldman Sachs projects it could reach $3.3 trillion by 2050, putting it among the top 10 to 15 economies globally,” she said.
Baker identified sectors such as critical minerals, information and communications technology, agriculture, energy, and infrastructure development as key areas where U.S. investment could be beneficial.
She also encouraged American businesses to connect with the U.S. Foreign Commercial Service team at U.S. Mission Pakistan for guidance on partnerships with local firms. “Let’s use this moment to build profitable ventures for U.S. companies and investors, contribute to economic prosperity for both our nations, and deepen bilateral ties,” Baker concluded.