Indonesia shows interest in importing Halal meat

MULTAN: Chargé d’Affaires of Indonesian Embassy Rahmat Hindiarta Kusuma visited Muhammad Nawaz Sharif University of Agriculture (MNSUA) to foster agricultural relations between Pakistan and Indonesia and initiate discussions on mutually beneficial cooperation in the field of agriculture and Pakistan’s halal meat industry.

MNSUA Vice-Chancellor Prof Dr Ishtiaq A Rajwana received him and presented a comprehensive overview of the efforts of the university to promote agricultural innovations in the region.

He highlighted recent achievements in agricultural research, innovation, and community outreach. Prof Dr Rajwana also emphasized the role of the university in supporting experts, scientists, and industry, contributing to the economic strengthening of the country.

He discussed current research and initiatives addressing critical issues such as climate-smart agriculture, water conservation, and pest control through smart traps. The Vice-Chancellor added that the university is working not only to increase agricultural productivity but also to create a sustainable and resilient agricultural system for enhanced food security.

The Indonesian ambassador expressed his exclusive interest in the potential of Pakistan’s halal meat industry, identifying it as a promising avenue for trade cooperation between Pakistan and Indonesia.

Acknowledging the rising demand for quality halal meat in Indonesia, he encouraged Pakistan to expand its exports in this sector.

He noted that Indonesia is a major consumer of halal products worldwide and that Pakistan has the expertise and resources to meet this demand, suggesting that strengthening trade ties could benefit both nations. The Indonesian ambassador visited the university’s state-of-the-art laboratories, observing advanced research in crop genetics, tissue culture, and crop productivity enhancement technology. These labs are integral to the university’s mission to improve crop yields, enhance food quality, and promote sustainable agriculture. He appreciated the scientific standards of the university and its potential to advance agricultural development. He also inspected the hydroponic unit, a modern facility dedicated to soilless agriculture.

Through this system, researchers and students are cultivating vegetables with minimal water and land usage. The visit concluded with a commitment to foster further bilateral cooperation and promote modern agricultural practices beneficial to both countries.