Editorial
Progressive farmers in Pakistan view corporate farming as an opportunity to modernise agriculture, improve crop yields, and increase exports. However, they emphasise that such ventures should be confined to private lands and not expand at the cost of state-owned lands. Their caution stems from the fact that millions of landless farmers exist across the country who could benefit if barren state lands in deserts, mountains, and regions like Cholistan were distributed among them instead of being handed over to corporations.
Internationally, corporate farming thrives on private land acquisition and leasing. In Europe, the US, and Australia, corporations lease or purchase private farmland, introducing modern farming practices that strengthen food security and export potential. In Pakistan too, the practice of leasing private lands for five to ten years is common, benefiting both landowners and leaseholders. For instance, the Sindh command area alone contains nearly 12 million acres of private cultivable land, divided across the Guddu, Sukkur, and Kotri barrages. Across the country, 60 million acres of cultivable land hold vast untapped potential.
Corporate farming, if applied effectively, can revitalise Pakistan’s agriculture through mechanisation, modern processing units, and export-oriented strategies. Experts highlight that one acre requires an investment of at least Rs100,000 for cultivation, a cost better managed by corporate entities with scale advantages. At the same time, land distribution policies must remain socially equitable. Landless haris should be empowered with ownership opportunities on barren state lands, thus ensuring inclusivity in agricultural development.
Republic Policy on X (Twitter)
Pakistan needs innovation, climate-resilient methods, and research-based dissemination to grassroots farmers. Corporate farming should complement these reforms but must avoid monopolising state-owned lands. Balancing corporate investment with farmer empowerment can unlock agriculture’s true potential, strengthen food security, and create a fairer, more productive rural economy.
