Focus on Value Addition, Farmer Inclusion, and Export-Oriented Growth
ISLAMABAD — Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the formulation of a comprehensive strategy to accelerate agricultural reforms, enhance productivity, and promote export-oriented growth in Pakistan’s agriculture sector.
Chairing a high-level review meeting on Tuesday, the prime minister was briefed by the Task Force on Agriculture regarding sector performance and ongoing reform initiatives.
The prime minister emphasized that boosting agricultural output and increasing exports are key priorities for the government. He instructed stakeholders to develop an inclusive and forward-looking plan that incorporates modern farming technology, high-quality seed distribution, and region-specific crop planning.
Shehbaz Sharif also called for urgent steps to promote value addition in agricultural commodities, aiming to produce export-competitive products. He urged the development of both short- and long-term loan schemes for farmers to ensure accessible financing options.
The prime minister further stressed the need to revitalize agricultural research centres to help increase per-acre yields, and directed that a detailed plan be prepared to support small and medium agro-industries, particularly those focused on value-added processing.
Highlighting the importance of food security and economic sustainability, he encouraged the cultivation of high-yield, high-profit crops, and instructed that the entire reform process should include a consultative approach, ensuring input from farmers and all relevant stakeholders.
