India-Pakistan boost trade 146%
India and Pakistan advanced their bilateral trade almost 150% last year, due in part to an encouraging climate brought about by last year's decision to begin Kashmir peace talks. Soon after the start of the peace process the two countries began renewing contacts, and as a result their trade has rapidly climbed. According to the Indian Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the total trade between the two countries from April 2004 through November 2004 totaled $381 million, up 146% from $155 million in the same period the previous year. Iron ore is one of India's basic exports to Pakistan, while Pakistan sells textile and fabrics to India.