A Pakistani agricultural researcher based in China says stronger scientific cooperation between Pakistan and China can help modernize Pakistan’s farming sector through advanced microbial technologies and sustainable agricultural practices.
Dr. Hafiz Muhammad Rizwan shared his views in an interview after attending the inauguration of the Yazhou Tropical Agricultural Science International Talent Station in Sanya, Hainan Province. He represented international researchers at the event.
Research Focuses on Sustainable Farming
Rizwan has conducted agricultural research in China since 2015. He currently serves as a postdoctoral researcher at the Chinese Academy of Tropical Agricultural Sciences.
His work focuses on beneficial microorganisms, plant-microbe interactions, fruit crop improvement, and climate-resilient farming systems.
Moreover, he said he hopes to serve as a bridge between Pakistan and China by connecting Chinese agricultural expertise with Pakistan’s research priorities.
Growing Agricultural Cooperation
Rizwan noted that agricultural cooperation between Pakistan and China has expanded under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the South-South Cooperation framework.
He pointed to recent agreements between Pakistani and Chinese universities on plant tissue culture technology and online training programs for Pakistani students.
In addition, Chinese experts have participated in mushroom cultivation programs in Pakistan, further strengthening bilateral cooperation.
Microbial Technologies Offer New Opportunities
Rizwan encouraged Pakistan to adopt China’s biological control and agricultural microbial technologies.
He highlighted microbial biofertilizers, biopesticides, and advanced fermentation systems as practical solutions for improving soil fertility and crop resilience.
Furthermore, he said these technologies can reduce dependence on chemical fertilizers and pesticides while supporting environmentally friendly farming.
Technologies Must Suit Local Conditions
Rizwan emphasized that Pakistan should not simply copy Chinese technologies.
Instead, researchers from both countries should evaluate, adapt, and validate them according to Pakistan’s climate, soils, crops, and farming practices.
He also recommended joint research on microbial strains, biosafety assessments, field trials, and local production of biological agricultural inputs.
Building Long-Term Research Partnerships
After completing his postdoctoral research, Rizwan hopes to establish joint Pakistan-China research platforms and expand researcher exchanges.
He also wants to promote technical training and validate microbial biofertilizers under Pakistani conditions.
As a result, Pakistan could develop locally adapted biological solutions, reduce reliance on imported agricultural inputs, and strengthen national research capacity.
Benefits for Pakistani Farmers
Rizwan believes stronger Pakistan-China cooperation over the next three to five years can improve agricultural productivity and sustainability.
According to him, scientific collaboration can help farmers increase crop yields, reduce postharvest losses, modernize farming practices, and improve market access through technology transfer and stronger extension services.
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