ISLAMABAD, Mar 4 (APP): Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, on Wednesday reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting farmers’ income, stabilizing domestic prices and strengthening Pakistan’s agricultural export base.
He emphasized that coordinated, time-bound, and practical interventions are essential to navigate current regional challenges while enhancing Pakistan’s presence in new and emerging markets.
The minister chaired the 4th meeting of the committee on Potato Export to review the evolving export landscape in light of emerging regional challenges and to finalize urgent measures for safeguarding farmers’ interests, said a press release.
The meeting took place against the backdrop of increasing logistical constraints affecting Pakistan’s access to key regional markets. Participants were informed that the prevailing war-like situation in Iran has rendered traditional transit routes unsafe, while the Afghanistan border remains closed, significantly limiting overland connectivity to Central Asia. In addition, restricted access to certain Gulf routes has further complicated export operations.
In view of these developments, the committee discussed alternative and viable corridors for sustaining export momentum. It was emphasized that, under the current circumstances, the most feasible route to access Central Asian markets is through China. The government is actively engaging relevant authorities to facilitate smoother transit via this corridor to ensure uninterrupted trade flows.
Recognizing the sharp rise in transportation and freight costs due to regional instability, the minister underscored the government’s resolve to provide targeted transport subsidies and concessional freight support to exporters. These measures are aimed at offsetting extraordinary costs arising from external disruptions and maintaining the competitiveness of Pakistani potatoes in international markets.
The committee also deliberated on diversifying export destinations to reduce reliance on traditional markets. Owing to the temporary closure and limitations of certain Gulf routes, the Ministry is proactively exploring opportunities in Far Eastern countries, particularly Indonesia, where demand prospects remain promising. Efforts are underway to engage trade representatives and importers to expand market access in this region.