The high-profile event, held at the Kombo Beach Hotel, marked a pivotal moment in the economic diplomacy between The Gambia and the Islamic Republic of Pakistan.
Jointly organised by GIEPA and the Ministry of Trade, Industry, Regional Integration and Employment, the mission brought together influential Pakistani business leaders and investors with their Gambian counterparts.
Delegates explored opportunities across a range of high impact sectors including agriculture, textiles, real estate, manufacturing, renewable energy, ICT, construction, infrastructure, and trade services.
Opening the forum, GIEPA CEO Ousainou Senghore welcomed the Pakistani delegation and emphasised Gambia’s commitment to a liberal trade regime, democratic stability, and a young, skilled workforce.
“This is not merely a forum; it is a powerful testament to our shared aspiration to deepen economic ties and expand trade horizons,” he said.
Senghore highlighted Gambia’s access to over D1.4 billion consumers through AfCFTA and assured investors of incentives such as tax holidays, import duty waivers, and expedited business registration under the Special Investment Certificate scheme.
Ambassador Saima Sayed, Pakistan’s envoy to Senegal and The Gambia, underscored the significance of the mission, pointing out the mismatch between strong political relations and minimal trade volumes.
“Despite our excellent diplomatic ties, trade remains unacceptably low,” she said. “This mission lays the foundation for tangible commercial linkages.”
She noted longstanding cooperation in diplomacy, military training, and education, and thanked GIEPA and the Ministry of Trade for their support.
Head of the Pakistani business delegation, Rana Sohail Ahmad, praised the warm hospitality received and described The Gambia as a gateway to West Africa and beyond.
“Gambia can become a manufacturing hub to export made in Gambia products globally,” Mr Ahmad said. He proposed the development of a Garment City and special economic zones to host Pakistani industries in sectors such as textiles, renewable energy, housing, IT, and agro-processing.
“We share values, religion, and culture,” said Ahmad. “There is no language or food barrier. We felt at home the moment we arrived.” He cited opportunities in cotton trade, renewable energy, and IT, noting Pakistan’s strength in these sectors and potential to support Gambia’s industrial growth.
Deputy Permanent Secretary Abdoulie Jammeh, representing Trade Minister Baboucarr Joof, welcomed the initiative, calling it a milestone in building sustainable economic cooperation. “The Gambia imported over D500 million worth of goods from Pakistan in 2025, mostly rice, but our exports remain minimal. This must change,” he stressed. He affirmed The Gambia’s readiness to host foreign investors, especially in its planned Special Economic Zone.
