LAHORE – Pakistan’s agricultural sector is key contributor to economy, and is facing urgent challenges that require immediate attention.
The issue comes under light at Lahore Chamber of Commerce & Industry (LCCI) where Federal Minister for National Food Security & Research Rana Tanveer Hussain called for improving seed quality and investing in agricultural research are critical for enhancing productivity. He said government is ready to fund initiatives aimed at advancing agricultural innovation.
LCCI President Faheem-ur-Rehman Saigol highlighted that Pakistan’s crop yields remain far below regional standards, with wheat, rice, and cotton production declining compared to last year. Despite being an agricultural nation, the country continues to import food and fertilizers. Saigol stressed the need for reforms in seed quality and urged focus on food processing and the halal food sector to drive economic growth.
He also raised concerns over rising poverty, reduced cotton production, and significant post-harvest losses, calling for government compensation for farmers, higher wheat support prices, and modernization of the agricultural sector.
Tanveer added that agriculture contributes 25% to GDP and is second only to textiles in exports. Measures are being taken to improve financing for farmers and SMEs, control fertilizer shortages, and regulate seed quality. He highlighted Pakistan’s potential in halal meat, rice exports, livestock, and milk production, while stressing the need to reduce edible oil imports.
He underscored the importance of industrialization, export growth, and cost reduction to boost competitiveness, with the government focused on reforms such as SIFC and Ease of Doing Business to strengthen the economy.
