Islamabad, 31 May 2025: Tariff Retaliation has prompted Pakistan to initiate formal discussions with the United States following Washington’s decision to impose reciprocal tariffs on several nations, including Pakistan itself, according to a statement from the Ministry of Finance.
Federal Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, during a virtual meeting with US Trade Representative Ambassador Jamieson Greer, held what officials described as productive talks. Both sides signaled a shared intention to advance the conversation to a more technical level in the weeks ahead, aiming for a timely and effective resolution.
READ MORE: Finance Ministry Warns of Inflation Rise by 2025
This diplomatic engagement comes in response to a policy move announced on April 4, 2025, by President Donald Trump, introducing a 29% retaliatory tariff on Pakistani exports. The decision forms part of a broader overhaul of US trade strategy, targeting more than 185 countries.
Concerns have emerged from Pakistani exporters about potential challenges to maintaining competitiveness and access in the American market.
Tariff Retaliation has added pressure on Islamabad to safeguard its economic interests. Khurram Schehzad, who serves as advisor to the finance minister, noted through his verified social media account that initial talks were encouraging, with both parties expressing cautious optimism about reaching a mutually acceptable outcome.
The tariff measures are not exclusive to Pakistan. The new US policy also affects key trading partners such as India, China, the European Union, and Gulf states including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Afghanistan illustrating the widespread impact of the recent changes in Washington’s global trade approach.
READ MORE: Donald Trump Announces 29% Trade Tariff on Pakistan
Pakistan’s swift response and diplomatic outreach demonstrate its commitment to shielding its trade sector from adverse international developments.
Tariff Retaliation has thus become a central focus of the government’s foreign trade agenda in the current economic climate.
