PM Shehbaz directs to expedite export of surplus food items to Gulf countries

Islamabad (Web Desk): On Wednesday, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif directed authorities to fast-track the export of surplus food items to Gulf countries, while ensuring that domestic supplies remain uninterrupted.

He was chairing a review meeting on exports of essential food items to the Gulf countries and Pakistan's Maritime Operations in wake of current regional situation, in Islamabad today.

PM Shehbaz also called for a comprehensive strategy to increase flight operations and boost port efficiency in response to the shifting regional dynamics.

The prime minister expressed satisfaction with the policies in place and the progress achieved so far to support food security in the region.

He lauded the work of relevant ministries and officials and instructed all concerned departments to maintain close coordination with Gulf countries regarding their food requirements.

Referring to disruptions in global supply chains amid the current regional situation, the prime minister noted that Pakistan has a responsibility to help meet the food needs of friendly Gulf nations.

He stressed that exports should proceed without compromising the availability of essential commodities for the domestic population.

PM Shehbaz emphasized careful monitoring of food demand and supply within the country and warned that delays in institutional decision-making would not be tolerated, instructing authorities to hold individuals accountable in cases of negligence.

He also directed the preparation of a detailed plan to expand flight operations at major international airports, including Karachi and Gwadar, to facilitate exports and improve connectivity.

Officials briefed the meeting that a special committee had approved 40 food items for export to Gulf nations, including rice, edible oil, sugar, meat, poultry, powdered milk, dairy products, and fruits and vegetables.

A database of exporters has been compiled, and exports of vegetables, fruits, and meat will proceed without additional charges.

Both sea and air routes are being utilized to maximize shipments, and business-to-business meetings and webinars with Gulf partners are being organized to encourage trade.

The briefing further highlighted that port operations at Karachi and Port Qasim remained fully operational during the Eid holidays.

Amendments in customs regulations now allow transshipment handling at off-dock terminals to increase capacity.

Transportation charges at ports have been reduced by up to 60 percent, and export facilitation desks have been activated to assist exporters. Priority berthing is being provided to ships carrying crude oil to ensure uninterrupted energy supplies.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, Economic Affairs Minister Ahad Khan Cheema, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, National Food Security Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain, Information Minister Attaullah Tarar, Maritime Affairs Minister Chaudhry Junaid Anwar, SAPM Haroon Akhtar, and other senior officials.