PM directs plan to export surplus food items to Gulf countries

LAHORE: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday directed officials to prepare a comprehensive action plan for exporting surplus food items to Gulf countries while ensuring that domestic requirements remain fully satisfied.

The directive was issued during a meeting held in Lahore to review the country’s food security situation and explore opportunities to export surplus agricultural products to regional markets.

Officials briefed the meeting on current food items stocks and production levels, informing that Pakistan currently has ample reserves of essential commodities and there is no immediate shortage.

The development comes amid the ongoing tensions in the Middle East, where disruptions in global supply chains have created new export opportunities for Pakistani products.

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The prime minister stressed that strict quality standards must be maintained for exports to brotherly Gulf countries and instructed the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation to take necessary steps to facilitate shipments through maritime routes.

The meeting was also informed that Pakistan’s agricultural sector — including crops, meat, poultry, dairy and seafood — holds significant potential for export growth.

PM Shehbaz directed the formation of a committee to review the supply and export situation on a daily basis and instructed Pakistani ambassadors and trade officers posted in Gulf countries to remain proactive in promoting exports.