High-level government talks have been launched to address concerns over food affordability and significant inefficiencies within Pakistan’s supply chain, as key sectors like dairy face significant constraints due to energy and logistical challenges.
The talks took place today between Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan and Prime Minister’s Coordinator for Climate Change Romina Khurshid Alam, who met with a delegation from the country’s food chain industry.
While participants noted that food availability and accessibility are relatively stable, they emphasised that affordability and the efficiency of the supply network require immediate attention to prevent disruptions to essential industries.
Mr Khan affirmed the government”s commitment to maintaining uninterrupted economic activity, particularly in vital industries. He underscored that sustainable trade growth is contingent on bolstering domestic supply lines and improving collaboration between federal and provincial bodies.
Ms Alam stressed the necessity of embedding climate resilience within food systems. She identified climate-smart agriculture, efficient resource management, and waste reduction as fundamental to achieving long-term food security, noting the government”s push for behavioural change and energy conservation.
The industry representatives provided insights into inefficient fuel consumption and transport logistics. They called for optimised freight systems, including better utilisation of trucking capacity and a more significant reliance on the country”s rail network to move goods.
A consensus was reached that policy interventions should prioritise efficiency enhancements over restrictive measures to preserve economic momentum. The promotion of alternative mobility solutions and digital supply chain management through public-private partnerships was also identified as a key strategy.
The meeting concluded with an agreement to establish a coordinated framework between commerce and climate institutions, a move aimed at fortifying Pakistan’s food systems, guaranteeing industry continuity, and fostering sustainable economic development.