Pakistan has launched its first public-private genomics partnership, a landmark initiative aimed at ending the nation’s reliance on foreign testing services and bolstering food security through advanced agricultural and diagnostic technologies.
The venture was formally inaugurated by Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, during a ceremony on Wednesday at the National Institute for Genomics and Advanced Biotechnology (NIGAB).
This strategic collaboration unites NIGAB and the PARC-Agro Tech Company (PATCO), operating under the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC), with the private entity Blazon Diagnostics.
In his address, Minister Hussain described the undertaking as a major milestone in transforming the country’s scientific landscape. ‘By developing indigenous genomic capabilities, we are empowering our researchers, farmers, and healthcare professionals with cutting-edge tools for innovation,’ he said.
He further emphasized that the project will not only enhance research capacity but also contribute to economic self-sufficiency by significantly reducing dependence on overseas genomic services.
The partnership is set to establish local DNA sequencing services for both agricultural study and clinical diagnostics. Officials stated the initiative is consistent with the government’s broader vision, led by Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, to harness advanced technology for national development.
PARC Chairman Dr. Syed Murtaza Hassan Andrabi lauded the collaboration, noting it would lay the groundwork for a new era in Pakistan’s biotechnology sector. He added that the venture would help modernize agricultural practices and open new avenues for economic growth driven by biotechnology.
The launch event drew senior officials, prominent scientists, and international delegates, including Lt. Gen. (R) Abdul Qayyum, Chairman of the Pak China Business Forum, and a delegation of Chinese researchers.
The establishment of this genomics collaboration represents a significant leap for Pakistan, positioning the country to meet future scientific challenges and contribute to the global research community with homegrown innovations.