Italian Ambassador Visits IMARAT Head Office to Explore Opportunities in Building Materials Sector

Islamabad, September 29, 2025 — The Italian Ambassador to Pakistan, Her Excellency Marilina Armellin, along with Trade Commissioner Salvatore Parano, visited the IMARAT Head Office in Islamabad to strengthen bilateral ties and explore potential collaborations in the building materials sector.

Her Excellency was welcomed by Chairman IMARAT, Shafiq Akbar, alongside senior management. During the visit, the delegation toured IMARAT’s offices and held discussions aimed at fostering greater cooperation between Pakistan and Italy, particularly in construction and real estate.

A key focus of the meeting was IMARAT Builders Mall (IBM), a pioneering platform that integrates showrooms, a supply chain network, and manufacturers to optimize the availability and quality of building materials. With IMARAT’s planned investment of over Rs. 100 billion in construction projects, IBM is positioned to ensure efficiency in supply, quality management, and timely delivery of materials.

IMARAT also shared its vision for horizontal integration through the establishment of local manufacturing facilities in Pakistan in collaboration with international partners. Such initiatives are expected to not only reduce reliance on imports but also create new avenues for industrial and economic growth.

The visit further laid the groundwork for IMARAT’s upcoming engagements in Italy, where Chairman Shafiq Akbar and senior executives are scheduled to meet with leading chambers of commerce and prominent building material manufacturers in October. These meetings will open doors to partnerships with sector giants in Italy, cementing a stronger trade relationship between the two countries.

Speaking on the occasion, Chairman IMARAT, Shafiq Akbar, highlighted the importance of international collaboration:

“This engagement with Italy marks a significant step in creating sustainable supply chain systems for Pakistan’s construction industry. By partnering with global leaders, we aim to bring efficiency, innovation, and long-term growth to the sector.”

The Italian Ambassador also emphasized Italy’s commitment to deepening trade and investment ties with Pakistan, particularly in areas where both countries can leverage their strengths for mutual benefit.

The visit reflects a growing recognition of Pakistan’s real estate and construction potential and underscores IMARAT’s role as a key player driving transformation in the sector.