Lahore, March 15, 2026 â Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to formulate a comprehensive strategy for exporting surplus food items to Gulf countries, while ensuring that domestic food security in Pakistan remains unaffected.
The directive was issued during a high-level meeting chaired by the prime minister to review the countryâs food supply situation and explore opportunities for exporting surplus agricultural products amid evolving regional dynamics.
Focus on Export Opportunities
During the meeting, officials briefed the prime minister that Pakistan currently has adequate stocks of essential food commodities and there is no immediate shortage of food items in the country.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif noted that disruptions in global supply chains have created new opportunities for Pakistani food products in regional markets. He stressed that Pakistan should capitalize on these opportunities, particularly in Gulf markets that rely heavily on food imports.
However, the prime minister emphasized that domestic demand must be fully safeguarded before exporting surplus food commodities.
Ensuring Quality and Supply Monitoring
The prime minister instructed authorities to closely monitor the supply and demand of food items to ensure national requirements are met. He also directed that strict quality standards must be maintained in the export of food products to friendly Gulf countries.
Officials informed the meeting that Pakistanâs agricultural sectorâincluding crops, meat, poultry, dairy products and seafoodâholds significant export potential, especially for markets in the Middle East.
Role of Pakistan National Shipping Corporation
To facilitate exports, the prime minister directed the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation to take necessary measures to improve logistics and ensure the smooth transportation of food commodities to Gulf countries through sea routes.
Committee Formed for Daily Monitoring
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also ordered the formation of a special committee to review the food supply situation on a daily basis. In addition, he instructed Pakistanâs ambassadors and trade officers stationed in Gulf countries to actively promote Pakistani food exports in their respective markets.
Key Officials Attend Meeting
The meeting was attended by several senior government officials, including Ishaq Dar, Jam Kamal Khan, Rana Tanveer Hussain, and Ahsan Iqbal, along with Special Assistant Haroon Akhtar Khan, provincial chief secretaries, senior government officials, and representatives of private sector associations.
The government hopes that a coordinated strategy will help increase Pakistanâs food exports to Gulf countries while maintaining stability in domestic food markets.