ISLAMABAD, 04 September 2026(Kamran Raja): The Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Pakistan organised a high-level Economic Round Table Conference and Networking Reception at the Netherlands Ambassador’s Residence, bringing together Dutch business leaders, senior Pakistani executives, government representatives and members of the diplomatic community to promote economic dialogue and strengthen long-term commercial relations between Pakistan and the Netherlands.
The event highlighted the strong and expanding presence of the Dutch business community in Pakistan, with more than 50 Dutch companies operating across key sectors, including agriculture, food and beverages, and industrial storage. The Netherlands is the second-largest trading partner of Pakistan within the European Union, with Dutch businesses making significant contributions to employment generation and food security.
Bilateral trade between Pakistan and the Netherlands has reached $1.9 billion, supported by the European Union’s GSP+ mechanism. The Netherlands also serves as an important transit hub for Pakistani exports to the wider European market through the Port of Rotterdam, the largest port in Europe.
Speaking on the occasion, Netherlands Ambassador Robert-Jan Siegert highlighted the deep-rooted presence of Dutch businesses and brands in everyday life in Pakistan.
“Dutch business is closer to everyday life in Pakistan than one might immediately realise. For many people, the day begins with a simple cup of chai, perhaps made with Lipton tea and Olpers milk bought at a SPAR supermarket. Behind that familiar morning ritual are Dutch brands, expertise, and partnerships that have become part of daily life,” the Ambassador said.
The Dutch business community is also contributing to social and community development in Pakistan. Friesland Campina is supporting rural women through its smallholder milk collection programme while contributing to public health by promoting access to safe and nutritious milk.
Similarly, AkzoNobel, through Dulux Paints, has supported community development initiatives, including the repainting of Dher Pindi, a neighbourhood in Lahore.
Successful joint ventures, including EngroVopak and Barkat Frisian Agro, further demonstrate the potential of Dutch expertise and Pakistani entrepreneurship to create sustainable business partnerships, generate economic value and contribute to Pakistan’s development.
The Networking Reception was attended by Minister for Finance Muhammad Aurangzeb, Minister for Water Resources Mian Muhammad Mueen Watto, and Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Dr. Musadik Masood Malik, along with leading representatives of the diplomatic, corporate and policy communities.
The gathering provided an important platform for strengthening business-to-business engagement, exploring new investment opportunities and reaffirming the commitment of Pakistan and the Netherlands to expanding mutually beneficial economic and commercial cooperation.