PM directs food supply plan for Gulf states

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday ordered special arrangements to help meet food requirements in Gulf states where supply chains have been affected by the ongoing war, while ensuring the country's own food security through strict monitoring of supply and demand.

Chairing a meeting to review Pakistan's food situation and the export of surplus commodities in light of changing regional dynamics, the prime minister directed authorities to maintain full oversight of the supply and demand of food items so that national requirements remain fully protected and the public faces no shortage.

Officials briefed the meeting in detail on the country's existing food reserves, domestic production and export opportunities. The briefing stated that Pakistan currently has abundant stocks of food items and that there is no shortage of any essential commodity.

The prime minister said disruptions in global supply chains have increased the export potential of Pakistani products in the region, creating new markets and opportunities for the country's agricultural sector.

The prime minister directed that special attention be given to meeting the food requirements of Gulf countries and ensuring their food security while safeguarding Pakistan's own domestic needs.

He instructed relevant authorities to prepare a comprehensive strategy for exporting surplus food items to Gulf states without affecting Pakistan's domestic food requirements, emphasising that high-quality standards must be ensured for food products exported to friendly Gulf countries.

To facilitate the process, the prime minister directed the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation to take necessary steps to export food items to Gulf countries through maritime routes in order to speed up and streamline deliveries.

The meeting was informed that Pakistan's agricultural sector, including crops, meat, poultry, dairy products and seafood, has significant production capacity and export potential. The prime minister also directed the formation of a committee to monitor the situation on a daily basis.

Prime Minister Shehbaz further instructed Pakistan's ambassadors and trade officers posted in Gulf countries to remain proactive in promoting exports and taking advantage of emerging opportunities.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, federal ministers Jam Kamal Khan, Rana Tanveer Hussain and Ahsan Iqbal, Special Assistant Haroon Akhtar, senior officials and representatives of relevant private associations.