Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to accelerate food exports to Gulf countries affected by regional tensions, while ensuring Pakistan’s own supply remains stable.
He warned that delays in decision-making would not be tolerated.
Chairing a high-level review meeting on the current regional situation, Prime Minister Sharif expressed satisfaction over the strategy and progress made so far in supplying food items to Gulf countries. He praised the relevant departments and officers for their efforts, noting that Pakistan has become more active in meeting the food needs of war-affected Gulf states.
However, he emphasized that the global supply chain has been impacted due to the ongoing regional situation, making timely decisions more critical than ever.
‘No delay acceptable’ in decision-making
The premier issued a strong directive against bureaucratic delays.
“Any delay in decision-making at the level of government institutions is unacceptable,” he said, adding that those responsible for negligence would be held accountable.
He stressed that all departments must remain in close contact with Gulf countries to ensure uninterrupted food supply and coordination.
While directing authorities to speed up food exports, the prime minister underlined the importance of safeguarding Pakistan’s own food security. He ordered full monitoring of demand and supply of essential commodities within the country to prevent shortages.
“It is our duty to take care of the food needs of Gulf countries, but national requirements must not be affected,” he said.
40 food items approved for export
During the meeting, officials briefed the prime minister that a special committee has approved the export of 40 food items to Gulf countries. These include rice, edible oil, sugar, meat, poultry, dry milk, dairy products, and fruits and vegetables.
Authorities also confirmed that no additional charges will be imposed on the export of fruits, vegetables, and meat, making Pakistani products more competitive in Gulf markets.
Measures to boost exports
Officials informed the meeting that both air and sea routes will be used to ensure smooth export operations. A database of exporters has been prepared, while business-to-business meetings and webinars are being conducted with Gulf countries to strengthen trade ties.
Export facilitation desks have been activated at all ports, and transportation rates at ports have been reduced by up to 60 percent to ease logistics.
The meeting was told that Karachi and Port Qasim ports remained fully operational even during Eid-ul-Fitr holidays. Transshipment handling has been allowed at off-dock terminals to increase capacity, and necessary amendments have been made in customs laws to support this.
Ships carrying crude oil are being given priority berthing to ensure uninterrupted energy supply.
Plan to increase flight operations
The PM also directed authorities to prepare a comprehensive action plan to increase flight operations at key domestic airports. This step aims to further facilitate exports and improve logistics efficiency amid rising demand.
Separately, Shehbaz Sharif held an important meeting with PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.
During the meeting, the prime minister took Bilawal into confidence regarding Pakistan’s role in the Iran-US conflict, while both leaders discussed the evolving regional situation and related measures.
Bilawal assured full support for the government’s stance on the Iran war. He also raised the issue of reviewing the NFC award, to which the prime minister assured consultations.
The chief ministers of Sindh and Balochistan were also present in the meeting and briefed the prime minister on smart lockdown strategies being implemented in their provinces.
