Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday directed officials to devise a strategy to export surplus food items to Gulf countries while ensuring that Pakistan’s domestic food needs remain fully protected.
He issued the directive while chairing a meeting on the country’s food situation and the potential export of excess commodities in light of the evolving regional environment, according to a statement from the Prime Minister’s Office.
The meeting took place amid the ongoing Middle East conflict that began after strikes by United States and Israel on Iran on February 28, followed by Iranian retaliatory attacks on US-linked targets in Gulf states. The tensions have also disrupted traffic through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, contributing to a global fuel crunch.
Officials told the meeting that Pakistan currently has sufficient food stocks. The prime minister said disruptions in global supply chains have created new export opportunities for Pakistani products in regional markets.
He instructed authorities to prepare a comprehensive plan to export surplus food to Gulf countries without affecting local supply, while maintaining high quality standards.
PM Shehbaz also directed the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation to facilitate sea transport of food exports and ordered strict monitoring of supply and demand to safeguard Pakistan’s food security.
Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and other ministers attended the meeting.
