France–Pakistan Business Desk for Cross-Border Expansion

Official Team France Export partner supporting expansion between France and Pakistan

WHO ARE WE?

At S&H Business Consultants, we operate the France–Pakistan Business Desk as an official partner of Team France Export. We support French companies entering Pakistan and Pakistani businesses expanding into France through structured, on-ground execution, not introductions or standalone advisory.

Our work covers market entry strategy, international trade support, partner identification, operational setup, outsourcing coordination, and technology and systems advisory where required. We act as a single coordination point so companies can expand with clarity, reduced risk, and operational control across both markets.

Demography

Pakistan has a population exceeding 240 million, with a median age below 25 and more than one-third of the population under the age of 15. This youthful demographic underpins long-term demand growth across both consumer and services-led sectors.

Rapid urbanization and the expansion of a middle-income population continue to drive activity in telecommunications, banking and financial services, energy, transport and logistics, food processing, and consumer goods. In parallel, a growing pool of skilled professionals has supported the expansion of software development, technology services, and emerging AI-driven capabilities.

Together, these demographic trends position Pakistan as a large-scale market with sustained demand potential and increasing operational relevance across multiple industries.

Security

Pakistan’s security environment has improved significantly over the past decade, particularly in major commercial centers and industrial corridors. Ongoing institutional reforms and targeted enforcement measures have contributed to greater stability for business operations.
For foreign companies, security considerations today are largely location-specific and sector-dependent, comparable to other large emerging markets. Commercial activity continues to expand across key cities and economic zones under established regulatory and operational frameworks.

Trade

Bilateral merchandise trade between France and Pakistan exceeded USD 1 billion in 2024, reflecting steady commercial engagement between the two markets. Pakistan’s exports to France reached approximately USD 519 million, while French exports to Pakistan totaled around USD 348 million, based on the latest available trade data.

France’s exports to Pakistan primarily include pharmaceutical products, industrial machinery, engines and turbines, and agri-food products. Pakistan’s exports to France and the wider European market include textiles and apparel, leather goods, surgical instruments, and selected industrial and consumer products..

Beyond established trade flows, Pakistan remains a high-potential market for French exporters across manufacturing, agri-food value chains, consumer categories, and technology-enabled services.

WHO ARE WE?

At S&H Business Consultants, we specialize in guiding French companies eager to explore, expand and capitalize on business opportunities in Pakistan. Our expertise are tailored to navigate the complexities of this dynamic market, ensuring successful outcomes for our clients.

Demography

Pakistan boasts a vibrant and youthful population, with 35.1% under the age of 15 and a projected population of 245 million by 2030. This demographic trend is driving the rise of a substantial middle class. Numerous sectors, including telecommunications and banking, are already thriving, while others, such as energy, water, waste management, transport, food processing, and consumer goods, present untapped potential given the country’s growing development needs.

Security

The security landscape in Pakistan, once a significant concern for French businesses, has improved considerably. This positive shift, coupled with Pakistan’s attractive investment policies—including full convertibility of the rupee and the free repatriation of profits and dividends—makes the country a compelling destination for investment.

Trade

Bilateral trade between France and Pakistan reached EUR 1.5 billion in 2024, with Pakistan standing as France’s second-largest client in South Asia. France’s primary exports to Pakistan include pharmaceutical specialties, engines and turbines, and dairy and cheese products. However, the market is ripe with opportunities in other sectors as well, such as beauty products, childcare, tableware, kitchen equipment, food industry ingredients, animal health, and dairy farming equipment.

An overview of what we do

France–Pakistan Market Entry & Trade Support Services

Services to French companies willing to outsource to their products/services to Pakistan (textile made-
ups & apparel, sports equipment & accessories, leather products, and surgical instruments etc)

An overview of what we do

Identify Potential Partners

Identify and shortlist vetted agents, distributors, suppliers, and strategic partners aligned with your market entry goals in Pakistan, based on sector relevance, scale, and execution capability.

Select Reliable Partners

Support partner evaluation and selection through background checks, capability assessments, and on-ground validation to ensure reliability, compliance, and long-term fit.

Organize B2B Meetings and Missions

Plan and coordinate targeted B2B meetings and business missions in Pakistan, aligned with clear commercial objectives, sector focus, and decision-maker access, not generic networking.

Provide On-Site Support

Provide on-ground operational support during meetings and business missions, including trilingual coordination and interpretation in English, French, and Urdu, along with local logistics and real-time issue handling to keep engagements efficient and productive.

Deliver Detailed Partner Profiles

Deliver structured partner profiles covering ownership, capabilities, market position, operational capacity, and strategic fit to support informed decision-making.

Monitor Tenders

Track public sector opportunities and international tenders to keep you informed of relevant calls across key sectors, including infrastructure, energy, transport, and public services.

Facilitate Outsourcing

Support the outsourcing of products and services to Pakistan, including textiles, sports equipment, leather goods, surgical instruments, and technology services such as software, IT, and AI-enabled solutions, backed by the country’s strong manufacturing and talent base.

Offer Translation Services

Provide professional commercial and technical translation across French, English, and Urdu to support negotiations, documentation, site visits, and ongoing business operations with clarity and accuracy.

Conduct Market Research

perform market research and survey to offer critical insights into the Pakistani market, aiding informed business decisions.

Develop Technology Solutions

Specialize in designing and develo0ping innovative software and websites to elevate business operations and enhance online presence.

OUR SERVICES

Services to French companies willing to outsource to their products /services to Pakistan (textile made-ups & apparel, sports equipment & accessories, leather products, and surgical instruments etc)

An overview of what we do

KEY FACTORS

French Companies Exploring Business Opportunities in Pakistan

01

Brand Perception and Market Trust

European products and services are well regarded in Pakistan for their quality and reliability. While pricing may be higher than alternatives from some regional markets, strong brand perception and long-standing trust often justify the premium, making European offerings a preferred choice in many sectors.

02

Reliability and Operational Efficiency

Establishing a reliable and efficient local presence is critical for long-term success in Pakistan, whether operating in consumer markets or capital-intensive sectors. Consistency, responsiveness, and dependable local execution play a central role in building trust and sustaining growth.

03

Stay Vigilant Through Regular Monitoring

Public contracts in sectors such as infrastructure, railways, energy, and hydrocarbons require continuous monitoring of government-issued tenders. Staying informed in real time allows companies to identify opportunities early and respond effectively as they arise.

04

Make Informed, Ground-Level Decisions

Strategic decisions should be guided by verified, on-ground intelligence rather than media narratives alone. Access to real-time market updates, local insight, and institutional coordination helps ensure decisions are accurate, practical, and commercially sound.

05

Security and Safety Considerations

Pakistan has made measurable progress in improving security across major cities and business hubs. While certain remote regions may still require caution, most commercial areas are stable and suitable for business travel, site visits, and operational activities for international companies.
 
 

KEY FACTORS

French Companies Exploring Business Opportunities in Pakistan

01

Leverage Your Brand Image

European products are well-regarded in Pakistan for their quality. Although they may be priced higher than those from Southeast Asia, the strong reputation for excellence often compensates for the price difference, making them a preferred choice.

02

Prioritize Reliability and Efficiency

To gain a foothold in the Pakistani market, whether dealing in consumer goods or capital equipment, it is crucial to establish a reliable and efficient local presence. This is essential for building trust and ensuring long-term success.

03

Stay Vigilant with Regular Monitoring

For public contracts in sectors like infrastructure, railways, energy, and hydrocarbons, continuous monitoring of tenders issued by government bodies is vital. Staying informed helps you seize opportunities as they arise. 

04

Make Informed Decisions

Don’t let media portrayals alone influence your decision-making process regarding potential opportunities in Pakistan. Instead, rely on real-time updates by contacting us or the Economic Department of the French Embassy for accurate and actionable insights.

05

Security and Safety Considerations

Pakistan has made significant strides in improving safety, making it secure for travelers of all genders in most areas. While some remote regions may still pose challenges, the majority of the country is now safe for both locals and international visitors.

Meet the Core Team

Saad Mahmud
Founder & CEO

Saad Mahmud is a Franco-Pakistani veteran with extensive experience, including his tenure at the French Embassy. Saad has been key in fostering economic ties between France and Pakistan. As a trusted partner of Team France Export, he has been instrumental in promoting bilateral trade and investment, positioning himself as a leading figure in this niche industry. Now, S&H Business Consultants has become a go-to partner for businesses aiming for strategic growth and cross-border opportunities. Saad’s deep market insights and knack for bridging opportunities between France and Pakistan make him an unmatched ally for organizations looking to launch their businesses, expand their global reach and achieve sustainable success.

Hidayat Hussain
Business Development Manager

Hidayat Hussain is a seasoned Franco-Pakistani professional with extensive experience in financial management, business advisory, and strategic planning. As a key member of S&H Business Consultants, he has been instrumental in promoting French exports to Pakistan in collaboration with the French Economic Services. Hidayat’s expertise in financial analysis, risk management, and compliance has enabled numerous organizations to achieve sustainable growth and operational excellence. His commitment to delivering tailored business solutions and his deep understanding of diverse market dynamics make him a highly respected figure in the industry.

Saad Mahmud
Founder & CEO

Hidayat Hussain
Business Development Manager

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