PM reviews food supplies, directs strategy to boost exports to Gulf countries amid regional tensions

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday chaired a high-level meeting to review the country’s food supply situation and explore opportunities to enhance exports of food items to Gulf countries amid evolving regional dynamics.

The meeting was informed that Pakistan currently has sufficient stocks of food items and there is no shortage of essential commodities in the country.

The prime minister directed authorities to maintain strict monitoring of supply and demand to ensure that domestic food requirements remain fully met.

Sharif noted that disruptions in global supply chains have created an opportunity for Pakistan to increase exports of its products to regional markets, particularly the Gulf region.

He directed officials to formulate a comprehensive strategy to export surplus food items to friendly Gulf countries without affecting Pakistan’s domestic food security.

Read More: PM Shehbaz orders an economic action plan amid global uncertainty

The prime minister also stressed that high quality standards must be ensured for all food exports.

The premier further instructed Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) to take necessary measures to facilitate the transportation of food items to Gulf countries through sea routes.

During the meeting, participants were briefed on the current reserves and production levels of food items in the country. Officials said Pakistan has significant export potential in the agricultural sector, including agricultural commodities, meat, poultry, dairy and seafood.

Sharif also directed the formation of a committee that will review the situation on a daily basis. He instructed Pakistan’s ambassadors and trade officers posted in Gulf countries to remain proactive in promoting exports.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, federal ministers Jam Kamal Khan and Rana Tanveer Hussain, Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Khan Cheema, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Haroon Akhtar Khan, along with senior officials, provincial chief secretaries and representatives of relevant private sector associations.