The Pakistan-Africa Economic Council (PAEC) is set to be formally launched this Friday, creating a new platform aimed at expanding Pakistan’s trade, investment and business partnerships with Africa’s rapidly growing markets.

The PAEC is described as Pakistan’s first official Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP)-authorised and registered Africa entrepreneurship platform. It will connect Pakistani and international entrepreneurs, investors and businesses with project-specific opportunities and joint ventures in Pakistan and selected African countries.

With Africa’s population standing at approximately 1.59 billion, the council aims to unlock greater trade engagement between Pakistani businesses and African economies by connecting capital, production capacity and entrepreneurial expertise with viable projects, said a release issued on Tuesday. The PAEC’s initial focus will be on East Africa, particularly Rwanda, Ethiopia, Uganda and Djibouti, followed by engagement with Somalia, Sudan and South Sudan. The council intends to facilitate partnerships that can support economic growth, industrial development, employment and regional connectivity.

According to the PAEC, its strength lies in its network of experienced production and business partners in Pakistan combined with established relationships with African businesses, local partners and government stakeholders.

As part of its international outreach, the council has scheduled two business opportunity trips to East Africa during the last quarter of 2026, in collaboration with local partners and host governments. The missions will provide entrepreneurs and investors with opportunities to explore projects, meet potential partners and assess investment prospects directly in the region.