(Web Desk) – In a major breakthrough for Pakistani exporters, the government is all set to open Pakistan Mart in Dubai – an export-dedicated facility that will serve as a permanent base for Made-in-Pakistan goods in the international market. According to Radio Pakistan, the initiative is a collaborative effort between Pakistan’s National Logistics Corporation (NLC) and UAE-based logistics giant DP World.

The state-of-the-art mart will be constructed near Jebel Ali, with DP World bearing the full construction cost. It will provide more than 500 Pakistani retailers and exporters a direct opportunity to sell their products to buyers across the Middle East, Africa, and beyond.

Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan described the project as “transformational” for Pakistan’s export landscape. He said the mart will allow Pakistani traders to benefit from global exposure while reducing logistical hurdles.

How will exporters benefit? The Pakistan Mart will include warehousing units, showrooms, retail shops, and e-commerce fulfilment centres, all tailored to support key Pakistani industries such as textiles, surgical instruments, sports goods, food items, and perishables.

The project also aims to enable Pakistani businesses to tap into digital export markets. In a detailed presentation, NLC Director General and DP World Vice Chairman Fakhr-e-Alam briefed government officials and business leaders about the scope of the facility. ICCI Senior Vice President Abdul Rehman Siddiqui termed the initiative a “milestone” for Pakistan’s economic future and lauded the cooperation between national and international partners. DP World officials highlighted the mart’s potential to serve as a global trade gateway for Pakistani goods – combining warehousing, logistics, and exhibition infrastructure under one roof.

When will it launch? While a launch date has yet to be confirmed, development activities are already underway. The Ministry of Commerce has directed the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) and other departments to actively identify export-ready enterprises and facilitate their tenancy at the mart. The government has assured that exporters using the mart will not face any taxes or fees until products are sold, and rents will remain minimal.

This zero-cost model for construction and low-cost entry for tenants is designed to ease barriers for small and medium-sized exporters. In FY25, Pakistan’s exports to the UAE stood at $2.121 billion, showing a modest 1.87 percent growth. Imports surged to $7.958 billion, widening the trade deficit. By opening this strategic facility, Pakistan aims to balance trade, strengthen foreign exchange inflows, and uplift its domestic export industries.

ICCI and business leaders across sectors have expressed strong optimism that Pakistan Mart will not only improve product visibility but also build long-term economic linkages for the country in the region.