SIALKOT : 25 Oct 2025 – H.E. Mr. Shuichi Akamatsu, Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan, visited the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI). He was warmly received by the business community, led by Syed Ahtesham Mazhar, President SCCI, along with members of the Executive Committee.During the meeting, both sides discussed ways to strengthen trade and economic cooperation between Pakistan and Japan. The President SCCI highlighted that exchange of trade delegations plays a key role in building closer business relations and promoting bilateral trade.
He mentioned that SCCI had successfully sent a trade mission to Japan in July 2024 and expressed the Chamber’s interest in sending another delegation soon. The President sought the support of His Excellency in facilitating this initiative, especially through coordination with the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) for business-to-business matchmaking opportunities.
The President also shared concerns raised by SCCI members regarding difficulties in obtaining visa appointments for business visits to Japan, particularly during peak exhibition seasons.
He proposed that the Embassy may consider introducing a facilitation mechanism for business visa applicants, including a designated focal person and special appointment slots for Chamber-recommended applicants, to ensure smoother coordination and ease of travel for businesspersons from both countries.
Furthermore, the President underlined the importance of reviving collaboration with Japanese organizations such as JETRO and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
He noted that these institutions had previously conducted valuable capacity-building programs for Pakistani exporters, and requested that such initiatives be reintroduced for Sialkot’s export community to enhance skills, productivity, and access to the Japanese market.
H.E. Mr. Shuichi Akamatsu appreciated the proactive role of SCCI in promoting Pakistan-Japan trade relations and acknowledged the strong industrial base of Sialkot.
He expressed interest in exploring new areas of cooperation, particularly in sports goods, surgical instruments, and information technology sectors, and assured continued support from the Embassy to strengthen business and cultural ties between the two countries.
Dr. Mariam Siddiqa, President of WCCIS, and Ms. Kinza Ijaz, Chairperson, Departmental Committee on Surgical Instruments, WCCIS, attended a meeting with H.E. Mr. Akamatsu Shuichi.
The discussion focused on strengthening trade relations between Pakistan and Japan. Dr. Mariam Siddiqa emphasized the importance of enhanced cultural and artistic exchange to promote mutual learning between the two nations.
Ms. Kinza Ijaz proposed the launch of a business exchange program to help entrepreneurs gain exposure to Japan’s advanced business environment. The Ambassador appreciated their valuable suggestions and expressed his willingness to take them forward.
