PM Shehbaz Sharif Directs Increased Food Exports to Gulf Countries
Islamabad: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to formulate a comprehensive strategy to export surplus food items to Gulf countries while ensuring that domestic food requirements in Pakistan remain unaffected.
The directive was issued during a review meeting chaired by the prime minister to assess the country’s food situation in light of changing regional circumstances. Officials briefed the meeting on the current stock and production of food commodities, stating that Pakistan has ample reserves and there is no shortage of essential food items.
Sharif said disruptions in global supply chains have created opportunities for Pakistan to increase exports of its products in the region. He emphasized the need to ensure the supply of food items required by Gulf countries while also supporting their food security.
The prime minister instructed relevant authorities to develop a plan to export surplus food commodities without affecting domestic consumption and to ensure high quality standards for exports to friendly Gulf states.
He also directed the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation to take necessary steps to facilitate maritime transport of food exports to Gulf countries.
Officials informed the meeting that Pakistan’s agriculture sector—including crops, meat, poultry, dairy, and seafood—has significant export potential.
The prime minister ordered the formation of a committee to monitor the situation on a daily basis and instructed Pakistani ambassadors and trade officers posted in Gulf countries to remain active in promoting exports.
The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, federal ministers Jam Kamal Khan, Rana Tanveer Hussain, and Ahsan Iqbal, along with Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Haroon Akhtar Khan, senior officials, provincial chief secretaries, and representatives of private sector associations.
