Pakistan Eyes Agricultural Push for Economic Revival

TDT | Manama

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Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif held a meeting with a broad delegation of agricultural stakeholders as the government prepares consultations ahead of the federal budget for the 2026–2027 fiscal year.

The delegation included representatives from farmers’ associations, the dairy and livestock industry, seed production companies, the value-added agriculture sector, as well as national and multinational institutions. The meeting focused on gathering input for upcoming budget priorities and long-term agricultural reforms.

Participants at the meeting praised the Prime Minister’s leadership in ongoing peace efforts amid regional tensions. They also welcomed the recently introduced Seed Policy and wider agricultural reforms, describing them as potentially transformative for the sector.

Agriculture seen as key to economic revival

In his remarks, the Prime Minister said Pakistan’s agricultural sector has the capacity to drive a “revolutionary” transformation in the country’s economy.

He said cooperation with the Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences is helping restructure the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) along modern lines to accelerate agricultural research and innovation.

Focus on productivity and climate resilience

The Prime Minister directed the formation of a national committee comprising experts and stakeholders to advance sustainable agricultural development reforms.

He emphasised increasing yield per acre, promoting climate-resilient hybrid seeds, expanding horticulture, improving mechanisation, and strengthening value addition across the supply chain.

He also stressed the need for stronger coordination between the federal and provincial governments to harmonise policies and regulations.

Cotton production and livestock priorities

The Prime Minister called on provinces, particularly Balochistan, to present comprehensive plans to boost cotton production. He also ordered the immediate notification of a reconstituted Cotton Board.

Welcoming proposals from stakeholders, he said the government would continue consultations to strengthen dairy and livestock sectors as part of wider food security goals.

Financial support and farmer welfare schemes

Officials briefed the delegation on ongoing government initiatives, including soft loans of up to 1 million rupees for small farmers under the fertility scheme.

They also highlighted risk coverage measures from the State Bank of Pakistan and crop loss insurance schemes aimed at protecting farmers from climate and market shocks.

Draft legislation, including a National Animal Health Act and a National Breeding Policy, has also been prepared to support livestock development.