Pakistan, Iran seek boost in agricultural trade

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain met Iranian Ambassador to Pakistan on Thursday to strengthen agricultural trade and cooperation. The discussion centered on boosting exports of Pakistan’s high-quality rice, mangoes and halal meat to Iran, aligning with Iran’s growing demand for these products.

The meeting highlighted Pakistan’s agricultural potential and the need to streamline trade processes. Hussain urged Iran to expedite the finalization of Pest Risk Analysis (PRA) dossier for maize, submitted by Pakistan earlier this year, to facilitate smoother agricultural exports. “We see immense potential in deepening trade ties with Iran, particularly in agriculture. Pakistan is well-positioned to meet Iran’s demand for quality produce while enhancing bilateral trade,” Hussain said.

Both sides discussed measures to simplify plant quarantine and sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) protocols to ensure seamless trade. Hussain proposed harmonizing export standards to allow processed poultry and value-added products from Pakistan to enter the Iranian market.

In addition to trade, the two countries explored avenues for agricultural research collaboration. Discussions included capacity building for cultivating high-value crops such as saffron, pistachios, and almonds, and leveraging renewable energy in agriculture.