TDAP and FPCCI Launch Trade Access Database to Help Pakistani Exporters Reach 95 Markets

The Preferential Trade Access Database covers 29 trade arrangements and provides information on tariff benefits, Rules of Origin and export documentation requirements.

The Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) and the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) have jointly launched the Preferential Trade Access Database (PTAD) to help Pakistani businesses identify export opportunities and benefit from preferential trade agreements.

The platform was formally introduced at FPCCI’s head office, Federation House, Karachi, during an inaugural session attended by business representatives and trade stakeholders.

FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh described the database as an important step towards improving Pakistan’s access to international markets. He said the platform would provide exporters, importers, manufacturers and international buyers with consolidated information to support trade decisions and connect businesses with global opportunities.

Database Covers 29 Trade Arrangements Across 95 Countries

According to the organisers, PTAD provides structured information on 29 preferential trade arrangements covering 95 countries.

The database is designed to help businesses understand the benefits available under Pakistan’s existing trade agreements and identify suitable markets for their products.

During the launch session, Saquib Fayyaz Magoon briefed participants on the platform’s main features. He highlighted its product-search facility, which allows users to search through Harmonized System (HS) codes or product descriptions to identify relevant market-access opportunities.

The platform also provides information on tariff advantages, Rules of Origin and documentation requirements. These details can help businesses assess eligibility for preferential tariffs and understand the compliance requirements before exporting.

Pakistan-Uzbekistan Trade Expansion Included

The database also incorporates updated information on the expansion of the Pakistan-Uzbekistan Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA).

This feature is intended to give businesses clearer information about the latest trade opportunities between the two countries and support stronger regional trade links.

By bringing tariff and compliance information together, PTAD aims to reduce the information gap that can prevent exporters from fully using existing trade arrangements.

TDAP Sees Platform as Tool for Export Growth

TDAP Director General Abdul Karim Memon said many Pakistani exporters and manufacturers had not fully benefited from existing trade agreements because information about preferential market access was scattered or difficult to access.

He said the database brings information on 29 trade arrangements across 95 countries into a single platform, helping businesses identify tariff benefits and make better-informed export decisions.

Memon added that the initiative reflects TDAP’s broader mission of connecting Pakistani businesses with international opportunities. He said improved access to trade intelligence could also support regulatory compliance and strengthen the competitiveness of Pakistani products.

FPCCI and TDAP Pledge Continued Cooperation

FPCCI and TDAP said they would continue working together to improve trade intelligence, facilitate market access and support export growth.

The launch marks a joint effort to make information on international trade arrangements more accessible to Pakistan’s business community.

The effectiveness of the platform will ultimately depend on its accessibility, the accuracy of its information and how effectively businesses use it to identify and pursue export opportunities.