Pakistan, U.S. Boost Agricultural Trade and Research Ties
Pakistan and the United States agreed to deepen their agricultural trade and cooperation. Federal Minister for National Food Security Rana Tanveer Hussain met with Acting U.S. Ambassador Natalie A. Baker to discuss new ways to grow this partnership.
The Minister welcomed the U.S. delegation and appreciated the long-standing collaboration in food security and research. He noted that U.S. support has played a vital role in improving Pakistan’s agricultural resilience and productivity.
During the meeting, both sides reviewed major joint initiatives. The Minister praised the Agricultural Linkages Program (ALP) for funding competitive research since 2000. This program has strengthened laboratories and enhanced Pakistan’s research capacity.
Key Projects and New Opportunities
Rana Tanveer highlighted the success of the Wheat Productivity Enhancement Project (WPEP). This project, involving USDA, CIMMYT, and Pakistani scientists, developed 36 new wheat varieties. As a result, yields have grown by up to 20%, with better resistance to rust diseases.
He also mentioned the Agricultural Innovation Project (AIP), a $30 million USAID-funded initiative. It introduced modern seeds, advanced farm machinery, and value-chain improvements in crops, dairy, and horticulture.
In addition, he appreciated U.S. support for agricultural education. Initiatives such as the Centre for Advanced Studies in Agriculture at the University of Faisalabad and the endowment at the University of Peshawar have improved professional and scientific exchange.
The Minister noted Pakistan’s growing dairy and livestock sectors. He said Pakistan now imports large numbers of Holstein cows from the U.S. Despite a livestock population of over 250 million, the meat sector still has room to grow.
He shared the government’s plan to enhance animal health through a Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD)-free zone in Bahawalpur and a modern traceability system.
The USDA delegation expressed interest in joint programs for genetic improvement in dairy and beef cattle. Both sides also agreed to expand collaboration in hybrid crop research, vaccine production, livestock breeding, and precision farming.
These efforts aim to boost productivity, sustainability, and trade in the years ahead.
