Policy needed for horticulture, agriculture

FPCCI standing committee chief stresses on identifying markets

ISLAMABAD: An effective and workable horticulture and agriculture export policy, similar to the textile policy, in consultation with all stakeholders needs to be introduced in the upcoming budget, the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) stressed.

In his proposals, FPCCI Standing Committee on Horticulture Chairman Ahmad Jawad said that government must formulate a feasible and workable horticulture export policy keeping in view the huge potential of the sector.

Moreover, he said that the government should allocate funds to promote the hybrid seed industry in Pakistan under private-public partnership to increase per-acre productivity. He urged setting up different projects including cool chain infrastructure, ripening centres, food processing and value addition industry, agro-processing industry and accredited testing laboratories at production hubs, particularly in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, to ensure availability of good quality produce for exports.

Additionally, he said, the government should also identify new export markets and sign protocols and agreements to remove bottlenecks for enhancing exports. A loan scheme for rural youths for promoting agriculture services should also be government’s priority.

Jawad also demanded that funds for Crop Insurance Scheme (CIS) for farmers may be disbursed to the areas affected by natural disasters/ calamities, wide-spread diseases and unpredictable weather conditions through proper mechanism and in transparent manner.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 30^th, 2016.

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