Pakistan is redirecting its potato exports to Central Asia via China after losing nearly half of its traditional markets in Afghanistan and Russia. The country recorded a production of 13 million metric tonnes this year, with 4–5 million metric tonnes considered exportable surplus.
Federal Minister for National Food Security Rana Tanveer Hussain said a high-level committee, led by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, is coordinating efforts to ensure potatoes reach Central Asian countries efficiently. Officials are addressing trade bottlenecks and transportation logistics, including visa arrangements for Pakistani drivers.
The National Assembly’s Standing Committee also approved 13 development projects worth Rs16.94 billion to strengthen agricultural infrastructure, including olive oil production, camel milk programs, and modernization of the National Agricultural Research Centre. These initiatives aim to stabilize exports and support farmers amid challenging market conditions.
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