ISLAMABAD – 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 advance economic dialogue and long-term commercial ties.
The event showcased the deep footprint of the Dutch business community in Pakistan. With over 50 Dutch companies present across sectors including agriculture, food & beverage and industrial storage, the Netherlands is the second-largest trading partner for Pakistan within the EU, contributing to employment and food security.
The Netherlands remains one of Pakistan’s largest trading partners in the European Union, with total bilateral trade reaching $1.9 billion, supported by the EU GSP+ mechanism. With Europe’s largest port in Rotterdam, the Netherlands also functions as an important transit hub for Pakistani exports to the rest of the EU.
Highlighting the ubiquity of the Dutch presence in Pakistan, Ambassador Robert-Jan Siegert stated:
“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 Dutch business footprint also extends to communities. FrieslandCampina is empowering rural women through its smallholder milk collection programme and contributing to public health through safe and nutritious milk, while AkzoNobel, through Dulux Paints, has supported community development initiatives, including the repainting of Dher Pindi, a neighbourhood in Lahore.
Successful joint ventures such as EngroVopak and Barkat Frisian Agro further demonstrate how Dutch expertise and Pakistani entrepreneurship create long-term value and contribute to Pakistan’s economy.
Also present at the Networking Reception were Minister for Finance Mr. Muhammad Aurangzeb, Minister for Water Resources Mr. Mian Muhammad Mueen Watto, and Minister for Climate Change and Environmental Coordination Dr. Musadik Masood Malik, alongside leading figures from the diplomatic, corporate and policy communities.
