Pakistan, US agree to strengthen agricultural trade and cooperation

Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain met with Acting U.S. Ambassador to Pakistan Natalie A. Baker to discuss enhancing bilateral cooperation in agriculture and expanding trade between the two countries.

The minister highlighted the long-standing partnership, noting U.S. support in joint projects, technical collaboration, and research linkages aimed at improving resilience, sustainability, and productivity in Pakistan’s agriculture sector. 

Both sides reviewed initiatives such as the Agricultural Linkages Program (ALP), the Wheat Productivity Enhancement Project (WPEP), and the $30 million USAID-funded Agricultural Innovation Project (AIP), which have contributed to improved crop varieties, modern farming techniques, and strengthened research capacity.

Rana Tanveer Hussain also noted the growth of Pakistan’s dairy and livestock sectors, including the import of Holstein cows from the U.S., while emphasizing potential for expansion in the meat sector. 

He outlined government efforts to enhance animal health and productivity, such as establishing a Foot and Mouth Disease-free zone in Bahawalpur and implementing traceability systems aligned with international standards.

Both sides agreed to deepen cooperation in areas including hybrid and disease-resistant crops, local vaccine production, livestock breed improvement, agricultural mechanization, precision agriculture, and digital farming technologies. 

The minister stressed Pakistan’s interest in boosting agricultural exports, particularly mangoes and horticultural products, through improved compliance and certification protocols.

Rana Tanveer Hussain reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to a resilient and technology-driven agriculture sector and thanked the U.S. for its support, expressing confidence that the partnership will create new opportunities for trade, investment, and innovation.