Islamabad (HRNW)- The National Assembly Standing Committee on Food Security met under the chairmanship of Hussain Tariq, where key issues related to potato exports and challenges faced by farmers were discussed in detail.
Officials from the Ministry of Food Security informed the committee that 21 sealed containers of Pakistani potatoes were dispatched to Central Asian states via Khunjerab before Eid. However, Chinese authorities have halted these containers despite clarification from the Pakistani ambassador that the shipments are fully sealed.
Authorities assured that there is no risk of disease transmission, and diplomatic efforts are ongoing through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to resolve the issue. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has also urged Chinese authorities to address the matter, as successful transit could open a new trade corridor for Pakistan.
Officials further revealed that negotiations are underway with 10 countries to boost potato exports. According to data, 45,000 metric tons of potatoes have been exported since March this year, while a total of 115,000 metric tons were exported in the past two months to countries including Bahrain, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, and Iran via the Taftan border.
During the session, committee member Rana Ishaq strongly criticized the official claims, stating that farmers are facing severe difficulties. He highlighted that potatoes are not being sold in markets and alleged that the situation has worsened to the point where even livestock are refusing to consume them.
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