ISLAMABAD (Special Correspondent) – The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI) and the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) jointly hosted the exclusive physical inaugural launch session of the Preferential Trade Access Database (PTAD) at the FPCCI Head Office, Federation House, Karachi, on 4 November 2026. The platform aims to empower local exporters, manufacturers, and international buyers with actionable trade intelligence to expand Pakistan’s global export footprint.

Key Points

• FPCCI and TDAP jointly launched the Preferential Trade Access Database in Karachi.
• The PTAD delivers structured access intelligence covering 29 Preferential Trade Arrangements across 95 countries.
• Exporters can conduct product searches by HS Code to understand tariff advantages and Rules of Origin.
• The initiative aims to bridge information gaps and maximize export potential for Pakistani businesses.

Institutional Milestone in Global Market Access

Mr. Atif Ikram Sheikh, President FPCCI, maintained that the PTAD is a landmark initiative designed to provide comprehensive information on Pakistan’s preferential market access worldwide. The platform directly empowers local exporters, importers, manufacturers, and international buyers with actionable trade intelligence to drive export growth and connect Pakistan to global opportunities, he added. For broader context on regional trade cooperation, business leaders often review frameworks such as the FPCCI Proposes ASEAN Business Visa and Expanded Trade Ties Roadmap to identify mutual economic opportunities.

Core Capabilities and Market Intelligence

Mr. Saquib Fayyaz Magoon apprised that, during the inaugural session, stakeholders and trade representatives were briefed on the core capabilities of the newly launched database. The PTAD delivers structured access intelligence covering 29 Preferential Trade Arrangements and maps markets for opportunity across 95 countries. Mr. Saquib Fayyaz Magoon highlighted that, to provide clarity for export decisions and practical guidance for compliance, the database details tariff advantages, Rules of Origin, and documentation requirements. Additionally, users can conduct product searches by HS Code or description to find relevant access pathways, while benefiting from updated insights on the Pakistan-Uzbekistan PTA expansion, which brings new momentum to regional trade.

Bridging Information Gaps for Exporters

Mr. Abdul Karim Memon, DG TDAP, stressed that the launch of the Preferential Trade Access Database (PTAD) marks an institutional milestone in global market access for Pakistan. For too long, our exporters and manufacturers have underutilized existing trade agreements simply due to a lack of consolidated information. By mapping 29 Preferential Trade Arrangements across 95 countries into a single platform, we are empowering our business community to maximize tariff advantages and drive sustainable export growth, he added. Mr. Abdul Karim Memon underscored that TDAP’s core mission is connecting Pakistan to opportunity, and this joint initiative with FPCCI puts vital market intelligence directly into the hands of our exporters, manufacturers, and international buyers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Preferential Trade Access Database?

The PTAD is a joint initiative by FPCCI and TDAP designed to provide comprehensive information on Pakistan’s preferential market access worldwide, covering 29 trade arrangements across 95 countries.

How does PTAD help Pakistani exporters?

It provides structured trade intelligence, detailing tariff advantages, Rules of Origin, and documentation requirements while allowing product searches by HS Code or description.