Businessmen asked to cash in on opportunities in Africa

Malawi consul proposes direct linkages, cites potential for significantly higher profits

KARACHI:

Highlighting Africa as one of the world's most promising untapped trade frontiers, Malawi Honorary Consul in Karachi Abdullah Zaki has urged Pakistan's business community to shift focus beyond traditional export destinations and capitalise on the immense commercial opportunities available in Malawi and the wider African region.

"Products costing merely 25 cents in Pakistan are being sold in Malawi for as much as 95 cents, demonstrating the extraordinary profit margins available through direct exports," he said, while stressing that Pakistan must bypass intermediary markets and establish direct commercial linkages with African countries.

He was speaking at a meeting at the Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCCI), attended by Businessmen Group (BMG) Chairman Zubair Motiwala, KCCI President Rehan Hanif and other business community representatives.

Zaki stated that although many Pakistani exporters traditionally target Europe, North America and other established markets, Africa, particularly Malawi, offers significantly higher profitability and enormous untapped potential. He noted that a substantial volume of goods currently reaching Malawi through Dubai actually originates from Pakistan and other South Asian countries. "Instead of allowing third countries to earn from value addition, Pakistan should establish direct export channels with Malawi and the African region." He informed participants that exports of several Pakistani products, including bangles and jute products, to Malawi had already commenced. Pakistan's exports to Malawi have recorded a 7% growth over the past two years, reflecting the growing acceptance of Pakistani products in the African market.

Encouraging the business community to actively explore new trade avenues, he assured them that his consulate remains fully available to facilitate Pakistani exporters by providing market information, trade guidance and business connectivity. "My office is always open for any businessman seeking information or assistance regarding Malawi. We are fully committed to strengthening the bilateral trade ties," he said.

Speaking on the occasion, BMG Chairman Zubair Motiwala observed that despite the immense potential, Pakistan's total trade with Malawi stood at only $11.8 million, which was far below its true potential. He emphasised that Malawi, despite being a landlocked country, serves as an important gateway to southern Africa and presents substantial opportunities for Pakistani exporters.

Motiwala pointed out that Malawi's economy was heavily dependent on imports, making it an ideal destination for a wide range of Pakistani products. He stressed that instead of concentrating solely on conventional markets, Pakistan must formulate a focused strategy to make inroads into emerging African economies.