Govt yet to finalise policy to counter US tariffs

As the government considers its options, the private sector views the Trump administration’s reciprocal tariffs as a strategic manoeuvre to compel Islamabad to engage in discussions for better access to the Pakistani market. The tariffs have also impacted Pakistan’s three main competitors in the US market — India, Vietnam, and Bangladesh. However, New Delhi and Hanoi have already prepared in advance, while Pakistan’s commerce ministry remains in the early stages of discussions. Despite maintaining the lowest tariffs on US products, Bangladesh has requested a three-month extension from Washington. In contrast, Vietnam has proposed a zero-duty policy for US goods. However, Washington seeks to bring these countries, including Pakistan, to the negotiating table.