NLC and DP World to Launch “Pakistan Mart” in UAE

In a significant move to enhance Pakistani exports, a delegation comprising representatives from the National Logistics Corporation (NLC) and DP World, a prominent logistics firm based in the UAE, has revealed intentions to establish “Pakistan Mart.” This dedicated commercial center, situated near Jebel Ali in the UAE, will serve as a platform to display products manufactured in Pakistan to both regional and global purchasers.

The delegation was under the guidance of Director General NLC, who engaged in discussions with Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan on Wednesday, according to an official statement released on the same day.

Fakhr-e-Alam, the Vice Chairman of DP World and CEO of the Pakistan Mart Project in the UAE, alongside Rana Ihsaan Afzal, Coordinator to the Prime Minister, and Muhammad Ashraf, Executive Director General from the Ministry of Commerce, were also present.

As per the statement, DP World has committed to providing complete assistance by undertaking the construction of this key project at no cost to Pakistani stakeholders.

“The proposed Pakistan Mart will feature commercial units, specifically designed to accommodate warehouses, retail outlets, showrooms, and e-commerce fulfillment centers tailored for Pakistani exporters and traders,” the statement noted.

The envisioned mart aims to operate as a comprehensive marketplace, showcasing products originating from Pakistan to potential buyers across the Middle East, Africa, and other international markets.

Jam Kamal lauded the initiative, describing it as a “transformational project” poised to greatly improve Pakistan’s trade and export presence.

He underscored the substantial potential within sectors such as textiles, apparel, surgical instruments, sporting goods, food products, perishable items, and nutraceuticals, highlighting their advantageous position to leverage this forthcoming opportunity.

He further emphasized that the mart must prioritize e-commerce fulfillment and logistics solutions to effectively capitalize on the expanding digital export sector.

The commerce minister instructed all relevant departments within the Ministry of Commerce, including the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), to promptly coordinate and offer support for the advancement of this initiative.

He conveyed assurances to the delegation, guaranteeing the government’s full cooperation in simplifying procedures and pinpointing export-ready businesses to occupy the soon-to-be-established facility.

The NLC and DP World delegation urged the Ministry of Commerce to take on an enabling role in the selection of tenants, execute impactful awareness campaigns, and assist exporters in maximizing the benefits of this advantageous opportunity.