Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, acknowledged today that Pakistan’s exports have remained limited to approximately USD 30-32 billion despite notable diplomatic achievements, including improved regional engagement with India. The admission came during a high-level interactive session with agricultural exporters at the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), convened on the Prime Minister’s special instructions to analyse a recent dip in the nation’s agricultural shipments.
The Federal Minister stressed that exports form the “real backbone” of the national economy, positioning remittances as merely a supportive source incapable of ensuring sustainable growth. He outlined a vision for a robust export-oriented economy built on empowering local farmers and domestic industries to reduce reliance on imports.
Mr. Hussain underscored that quality production and competitive pricing are indispensable for securing and expanding Pakistan”s presence in global markets.
Identifying specific areas of high potential, the Minister pointed to meat, livestock, and rice as sectors offering significant opportunities to boost foreign earnings. He revealed that Malaysia, Saudi Arabia, Iran, and other Gulf nations are prepared to import Pakistani fresh meat and rice, while Tajikistan alone has expressed a demand for nearly 100,000 tonnes of meat. He insisted that Pakistan must align its production, processing, and regulatory frameworks with international standards to capitalise on these opportunities.
However, business leaders voiced serious concerns impeding progress. Acting President FPCCI, Mr. Saqib Riaz, who welcomed the Minister, warned that high tax rates, complex policies, the attitude of the FBR, and the rapid conversion of agricultural land into housing schemes are creating severe challenges for exporters. He urged that agricultural land must be safeguarded.
FPCCI Vice President, Mr. Tariq Jadon, who led the session, criticised the country’s Free Trade Agreements, stating they have not delivered balanced benefits and should be reviewed to better serve national export interests. He also highlighted the substantial financial losses suffered by traders due to the closure of the Afghanistan border, which disrupted regional trade.
Representatives from the Fruit and Vegetable Association raised specific operational issues, citing reservation and market access problems for key horticultural products like potatoes and kinnow, calling for greater facilitation and improved logistics.
In response to the multitude of issues, Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain assured the business community of the government’s complete support. He directed the FPCCI and stakeholders to prepare a consolidated document of their challenges and recommendations, announcing a follow-up meeting would be held shortly to ensure effective and swift implementation of solutions.