Pakistan and Saudi Arabia have agreed to increase Pakistan’s agricultural and food exports to Saudi Arabia to $3 billion within the next two years.
The agreement followed talks between the two countries during a Saudi delegation’s visit to Islamabad from August 26 to 28.
Pakistan’s delegation was led by Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain. Saudi Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture Engineer Abdulrahman A. Al-Fadley led the Saudi side.
Rice and Meat Lead Export Priorities
Both countries identified several priority products for stronger trade. These include rice, red meat, fruits, fruit concentrates, and green fodder.
Pakistan supplied around 169,000 tonnes of rice worth $163 million to Saudi Arabia in 2025. The Saudi side expressed interest in increasing rice imports from Pakistan.
Moreover, Pakistan supplies around 30,000 tonnes of red meat annually, valued at approximately $167 million.
Focus on Fruits and Food Processing
The two sides also agreed to strengthen business-to-business connections. They will promote private-sector matchmaking and mutual recognition of quality certifications.
This approach aims to increase Pakistani exports of fruits and fruit concentrates to the Saudi market.
In addition, Pakistan presented investment opportunities in livestock, agri-food processing, and the rice value chain.
Water-Efficient Agriculture Gains Attention
Water-efficient agricultural technology emerged as another important area of cooperation.
Both sides welcomed the successful completion of the first phase of a water-efficient irrigation program in Bhakkar, Punjab. They also expressed interest in a second phase targeting small farmers.
Furthermore, the Saudi delegation encouraged Pakistan to join the International Dates Council. Pakistan welcomed the proposal.
Strengthening Private-Sector Partnerships
The Saudi delegation held meetings with Pakistan’s Special Investment Facilitation Council, Fauji Foundation, and the Pakistan-Saudi Arabia Agri-Business Forum.
It also visited the National Agricultural Research Centre and reviewed Pakistan’s Agriculture and Food Strategic Plan.
These engagements aim to connect businesses and turn investment proposals into practical projects.
Pakistan to Join Saudi Agriculture Exhibition
Pakistan has welcomed an invitation to participate in the 43rd Saudi Agriculture Exhibition in Riyadh from October 19 to 22, 2026.
The event will provide Pakistani companies with an opportunity to showcase agricultural products and explore new business partnerships.
Roadmap for $3 Billion in Exports
The latest understanding reflects growing agricultural cooperation between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.
Both sides agreed to maintain close coordination and turn the agreements into practical cooperation. As a result, stronger private-sector partnerships could help Pakistan expand its food exports and reach the $3 billion target over the next two years.
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