Cooperation: Argentinean envoy stresses enhanced bilateral trade

Argentina is exporting CNG equipment, including cylinders, car kits and compressors to Pakistan, says Ambassador.

The volume of trade between Pakistan and Argentina has fallen from $200 million in 2008 to $120-130 million in the recent past. Hence, there is a need to find ways through which bilateral trade can increase.

This was said by Argentinean Ambassador Rodolfo J Martin during his visit to Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI), said a press release on Thursday.

The ambassador said Argentina has started joint ventures with pharmaceutical companies in Pakistan to produce medicines for cancer and hepatitis C. Being a major producer and exporter of compressed natural gas (CNG), Argentina is exporting CNG equipment, including cylinders, car kits and compressors to Pakistan, he explained.

He said agriculture and alternative energy could serve as key sectors for trade between the two countries. “Pakistan has a great potential to export fruits and vegetables to the international market,” he said. “A fruit processing plant should be developed on modern lines since large quantities of fruits and vegetables are wasted due to improper packaging.”

ICCI President Zafar Bakhtawari said both countries should concentrate on existing opportunities and the business delegations should be encouraged to explore new markets.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 23^rd, 2012.