Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a high-level meeting to review Pakistan’s food export strategy to Gulf countries and assess port and maritime operations amid evolving regional challenges.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The prime minister expressed satisfaction with the current export strategy and the progress made so far. He appreciated the performance of relevant departments and officials involved in ensuring smooth supply of food items to Gulf markets.
Focus on Food Security and Regional Responsibility
During the meeting, the prime minister emphasized that Pakistan has a key role in supporting the food security of Gulf nations, especially in light of global supply chain disruptions. He directed all concerned departments to maintain close coordination with Gulf countries to ensure timely and consistent supply of essential food items.
He also instructed authorities to accelerate exports of surplus food commodities without compromising domestic availability. Strict monitoring of supply and demand within Pakistan was ordered to avoid any shortages.
Strict Instructions on Decision Making and Accountability
The prime minister made it clear that delays in decision making would not be tolerated. He directed that accountability mechanisms be enforced to ensure timely actions by all departments involved in export operations.
Expansion of Air and Sea Export Channels
Authorities were instructed to prepare a comprehensive plan to increase flight operations from major international airports, including Karachi and Gwadar, to facilitate faster export of food products.
Officials briefed the meeting that a special export committee has approved 40 food items for Gulf markets. These include:
- Rice
- Cooking oil
- Sugar
- Meat and poultry
- Dairy products and dry milk
- Fruits and vegetables
A dedicated database of exporters has also been developed to streamline export processes.
Improved Port Operations and Export Facilitation
The meeting was informed that Karachi Port and Port Qasim remained fully operational even during Eid holidays, ensuring uninterrupted export activity.
Key measures taken to enhance port efficiency include:
- Reduction in transport rates by up to 60 percent
- Activation of export facilitation desks
- Permission for off-dock terminals to handle transshipment
- Amendments in customs laws to improve logistics
- Priority berthing for oil tankers carrying crude oil
Officials also confirmed that both air and sea routes will be utilized for exports, supported by business-to-business meetings and virtual engagements with Gulf partners.
High-Level Participation in Strategic Meeting
The meeting was attended by senior government officials, including Ishaq Dar, Khawaja Asif, Ahsan Iqbal, Muhammad Aurangzeb, and other key ministers and stakeholders.