Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif took a decisive step to revive the country’s weakening agricultural exports by directing officials to prepare a bold five-year strategy.
According to sources, while chairing a meeting of the newly established working group yesterday, the Prime Minister emphasized the need to align the country’s agricultural production with global standards to boost exports. He said the government is committed to advancing agricultural reforms at both federal and provincial levels. He stressed that increasing per-acre productivity is a key goal, which requires better access to seeds, fertilizers, and pesticides, along with raising farmers’ awareness of international standards.
He noted that agricultural reforms and educating farmers on modern requirements are essential for the country’s economic growth. Focus will be on higher productivity, innovation in processing systems, and ensuring that agricultural products meet export standards.
Sources said the Prime Minister highlighted government initiatives to promote sustainable farming practices and mentioned that sending 1,000 Pakistani students to China for training in modern agricultural technologies is part of this effort. He acknowledged that the country has immense potential in the agricultural sector, especially in fisheries and horticulture, and said policies are being formulated to improve productivity and make these sectors export-friendly.
As a key directive, the Prime Minister instructed officials to explore the potential for domestic palm oil production along the coastal belt to reduce import dependence and increase the sector’s contribution to the economy.
Sources said federal ministers, senior officials, and working group members attending the meeting received a detailed briefing on the country’s agricultural performance. The group presented a comparative review of major Rabi and Kharif crops, along with statistics from the livestock, dairy, and horticulture sectors.
According to sources, Working Group Chairman Rana Naseem briefed the participants on the challenges facing the agricultural sector and the roadmap ahead. The group stated that the federal government will launch a certification system for processed agricultural products, which will improve access to global markets for value-added products and increase farmers’ income.
The roadmap also includes plans to restore agricultural research institutions, enhance crop productivity, and introduce new, more profitable crops suited to seasonal conditions.
The Prime Minister appreciated the detailed briefing by the working group and emphasized the need to prepare a practical roadmap that can be incorporated into government reforms. He said that a strong and actionable plan will form the foundation for transforming the agricultural sector and ensuring long-term growth.
