Food security hinges on innovation

Agricultural productivity in Pakistan remains critically low and must be improved through investment in research and innovation. Both the government and private sector need to play an active role in this endeavour and the government will provide funding support to those conducting agricultural research. In this regard, better seed quality is seen as the cornerstone of progress.

These views were expressed by Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain during his address at the Lahore Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI).

Hussain said that he has consistently worked for the improvement of all sectors, having previously served as the minister for industries and production. He stressed that food security has become a global concern and holds growing importance worldwide, adding that work is underway to bring the policy rate to single digits, while relief in electricity tariffs has already been provided for the industry.

He underscored that Pakistan's economy is based on agriculture, which contributes around 25% to GDP and ranks second only to textile in exports. He recalled that between 2013 and 2018, the government had successfully resolved severe power and gas shortages.

Electricity supply had been the main obstacle to industrial growth and the introduction of RLNG helped end the gas crisis, stabilising economic indicators and protecting Pakistan from default. However, he acknowledged that compliance with IMF programmes requires difficult decisions that can temporarily slow growth.

The minister informed the audience that the National Seed Regulatory Authority has now been established, with strict controls on counterfeit seeds and the introduction of a track and trace system for certified seed distribution.

He added that banks have been instructed to increase financing for agriculture and small and medium enterprises (SMEs). He mentioned that fertiliser shortages have been prevented and prices remain stable. Agri-based industries, he said, face strong international demand, particularly for halal meat and rice exports. Pakistan ranks among the leading nations in livestock and milk production, yet imports 89% of edible oil, a figure that must be reduced.

Hussain stressed that the business community is a vital stakeholder in national progress and expanding industrialisation and exports is essential. "Our exports must reach $100 billion," he said, adding "we must build a strong Pakistan for future generations." He reiterated the government's commitment to reducing unnecessary taxes and promoting growth in IT, agriculture, mining and minerals.

The federal minister concluded that economic growth will accelerate after Pakistan exits the IMF programme, adding that reducing production costs is vital for boosting exports. "The government is focused and working tirelessly," he said, noting that the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC) is performing well as ease of doing business remains one of the top government priorities.

Speaking on the occasion, LCCI President Faheemur Rehman Saigol stated that food security is one of the most crucial ministries as Pakistan is facing serious challenges. He pointed out that the per-acre yield of major crops in Pakistan is significantly lower than that of neighbouring countries, while wheat, rice and cotton production has declined compared to the previous year.

He noted with concern that despite being an agricultural economy, Pakistan continues to import food items and fertiliser, which is described as highly alarming. He said that local seed quality remains globally uncompetitive and requires urgent reform. He emphasised the need to focus on food processing and the halal food industry to boost the economy through value addition.

Saigol remarked that the country's population is increasing while food production is declining, with almost 50% of citizens now living below the poverty line, a factor contributing to rising crime rates.

He highlighted that cotton production has fallen from over 10 million bales to around 7 million, while nearly 30% of produce is wasted during harvest, indicating major inefficiencies in the agriculture system.

He urged the government to take immediate action to compensate farmers for their losses, increase the wheat support price and modernise the agriculture sector.