Argentina offers agri, food security expertise

Envoy says pilot grain silo project under discussion; LCCI urges stronger trade ties and JVs

LAHORE:

Argentina has expressed readiness to share its expertise in agriculture, livestock, and food security with Pakistan to help strengthen its production capacity, storage systems, and overall food chain.

As per a statement, speaking at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) on Tuesday, Argentine Ambassador Sebastian Sayus said Argentina and Pakistan enjoy friendly relations based on mutual respect and are committed to elevating this partnership through deeper cooperation in trade, culture, and technology.

The ambassador announced that discussions were underway for a pilot project on modern grain silos aimed at enhancing Pakistan's storage capacity and reducing post-harvest losses. He said Argentina was ready to offer technical cooperation in biotechnology, agricultural innovation, and food systems, which could transform both economies and open new opportunities for farmers and industries. Sayus said Argentina was a reliable partner for Pakistan in meat processing, agricultural machinery, sports goods, and surgical instruments, while also highlighting strong potential for collaboration in information technology and industrial development.

LCCI President Faheemur Rehman Saigol welcomed the envoy and praised Argentina's achievements in sports, agriculture, and economic growth. "Argentina is one of Latin America's largest economies, with a GDP of over $630 billion, vast natural resources, and strengths in energy and agriculture," he said.

He noted that bilateral trade between the two countries reached $394 million in 2024-25, with Pakistan's exports standing at $51 million and imports at $343 million. "While the balance of trade favours Argentina, we are keen to expand our export volume to make trade more balanced," he said.

Citing ITC TradeMap figures, Saigol added that Argentina's global exports exceeded $79 billion, and Pakistan aims to increase its share in Argentina's total trade to $2 billion.