Pakistan eyes expanded agri-trade with France

February 27, 2025 (MLN): Pakistan is poised to expand its agricultural exports and research collaborations with France, as both nations explore new avenues in trade, technology exchange, and investment.

Federal Minister for National Food Security & Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, met with the French Ambassador to Pakistan yesterday, reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to strengthening bilateral agricultural ties.

The discussions focused on boosting Pakistan’s exports of rice, mangoes, spices, sesame seeds, maize, and organic products, while also advancing negotiations for importing French seed potatoes.

In 2024, bilateral agri-trade between the two nations reached $39 million, with Pakistan exporting $35.5 million and importing $3.5 million from France.

A major development in the talks was the progress on market access for French seed potatoes. A Pakistani delegation visited France in June 2024 to assess its phytosanitary system and finalize the Pest Risk Analysis (PRA).

With the audit report submitted, further negotiations are underway to establish import protocols.

Beyond trade, both sides explored joint research initiatives between Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) and French institutions, focusing on climate-resilient crop breeding, oilseed research, aquaponics, honey quality control, and germplasm conservation.

Further, livestock and fisheries partnerships were discussed, including potential joint ventures in fish farming, aquaculture technology, and genetic improvement of cattle.

Minister Hussain also invited French investment in hybrid seed production, seed testing, and DNA fingerprinting, emphasizing the potential for joint ventures to modernize Pakistan’s agricultural sector.

The meeting concluded with both countries reaffirming their commitment to enhancing agricultural cooperation through trade, research, and investment.

The Ministry of National Food Security & Research remains dedicated to fostering global partnerships, improving agricultural standards, and ensuring sustainable food security in Pakistan.

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