Pakistan, Qatar to forge new agricultural partnership

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Wednesday unveiled new agricultural initiatives aimed at boosting exports and attracting investment from Qatar, as both nations agreed to deepen cooperation in food and agricultural security.

Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain, in a meeting with Qatari Ambassador Ali bin Mubarak Al Khater, proposed the creation of a Joint Working Group on Agriculture to identify priority projects and develop a structured framework for collaboration.

Highlighting Pakistan’s emerging agri-exports, the minister said the country has begun producing and exporting dry camel milk to the United States and China, with Saudi Arabia showing strong interest. He also revealed investment-ready projects for Rhodes grass exports and industrial-scale feedlot fattening farms — ventures that could directly support Qatar’s food and feed security needs.

“Our government strongly encourages Qatari investors to explore vast opportunities in Pakistan’s agri-sector,” Hussain said. “We are ready to facilitate partnerships, provide land access, and ensure smooth coordination at every stage.”

He noted that Pakistan’s agri-exports to Qatar remain limited compared with regional competitors, despite the countries’ long-standing fraternal relations. He assured that red tape has been significantly reduced and a business-friendly climate has been established to welcome foreign investors.

Ambassador Al Khater praised Pakistan’s agricultural potential and skilled workforce, calling them vital for Qatar’s Vision 2030 food security goals. He announced that Qatar’s commerce minister will soon visit Islamabad to explore new investment avenues and proposed appointing focal persons from both sides for ongoing engagement.

Both countries agreed to formalize cooperation through a Memorandum of Understanding on Agricultural Collaboration and to strengthen B2B linkages between Pakistani exporters and Qatari importers.