Budget expectations roll in

FPCCI wants horticulture export policy.

ISLAMABAD: Ahead of the budget, the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industries (FPCCI) has suggested that the government formulate a horticulture export policy in consultation with industry leaders. The organisation has suggested that the guidelines be formed on the pattern of the textile policy. 

This was recommended by FPCCI standing committee on horticulture in its budget recommendations to the federal government. The committee stated that despite significant potential in the horticulture sector in Pakistan, its export did not meet international standards due to the absence of an export policy. Additionally, the committee also suggested that the government should make specific budget allocations to promote the hybrid seed industry, food processing and value addition industry.

They also proposed establishing an agro-processing industry in public private partnership mode such as fruit dehydration and individual quick freeze, which will help in reducing post harvest losses and increasing horticultural exports.

The apex body recommended identifying new export markets and sign protocols and agreements to remove bottlenecks for enhancing exports.

Talking to The Express Tribune, the FPCCI’s standing committee on horticulture chairman Ahmed Jawad said that despite immense potential, the agricultural sector of Pakistan lacks efficiency and global competitiveness. “The loss of efficiency is denting the country’s self sufficiency in production of various farm goods.”

He claimed that production of various farm products has been low compared to the global benchmark. “This double blow of low output and high losses diminishes the income of growers,” he noted.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 24^th, 2015.

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