Govt clears 40 food items for Gulf exports, orders faster shipments via air and sea

A government committee tasked with strengthening trade links with Gulf nations has approved 40 food products for export, as authorities move to secure regional supply arrangements while safeguarding domestic availability.

Officials briefed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif during a high-level meeting on food supply logistics and maritime operations held in the context of the ongoing regional situation affecting trade and transport routes.

The list of approved export items includes essential commodities such as rice, edible oil, sugar, meat, poultry, dried milk, dairy products, fruits, and vegetables, reflecting a focus on staple and high-demand food categories in Gulf markets.

Authorities informed the meeting that shipments of vegetables, fruits, and meat would proceed without the imposition of additional export charges, while both air and sea corridors will remain operational to ensure uninterrupted supply to partner countries in the region.

The prime minister directed relevant ministries and trade agencies to accelerate exports of surplus food stocks while maintaining strict oversight of domestic supply and demand conditions to prevent shortages within the country.

He also instructed departments to maintain continuous coordination with Gulf states to meet evolving food security requirements and ensure timely delivery of essential commodities.

Separately, the meeting reviewed operational readiness at major logistics hubs, with the prime minister ordering the preparation of a comprehensive plan to increase flight operations at key aviation gateways, including Jinnah International Airport and Gwadar International Airport, as part of broader efforts to strengthen export capacity and supply chain resilience.

Expressing satisfaction with the progress made so far, the prime minister commended the performance of relevant departments but emphasised the need for swift administrative action, warning that delays in government decision-making would not be tolerated.