ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Commerce Ministry has denied any trade relations with Israel, despite reports of Pakistani goods being sold in Israel through Dubai.
The denial was issued in response to news that Pakistani items, including dates and spices, had made their way into Israel via the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Jewish Pakistani Fishel Benkhald had sent food samples to three businessmen in Jerusalem and Haifa in a personal capacity after meeting them at food exhibitions in foreign countries.
Also read: American Jewish Congress issues statement on trade between Israel & Pakistan
In a press release, the Ministry of Commerce in Islamabad stated that the rumors of Pakistan beginning trade with Israel were unfounded and nothing more than propaganda. The release mentioned that the news of Pakistan starting trade relations with Israel was misrepresented by the American Jewish Congress in their press release, which didn’t mention any official trade between the two countries.
A spokesman for the Ministry of Commerce reiterated that Pakistan has no trade relations with Israel and has no plans to establish any. They further explained that in discussions with the UAE, the issue of origin of goods will be strictly implemented. UAE has reduced tariffs on 96 percent of goods traded with Israel, which has benefited traders from UAE to Israel.
The Ministry’s statement came after concerns were raised that the country was moving towards normalization of ties with Israel, following the recent establishment of diplomatic relations between Israel and several Arab countries.
Commerce Ministry spokesperson said Pakistan has very clear policy of trade with countries. According to Import Policy Order, 2022 Pakistan has explained the prohibition of trade with various economies.
