Pakistan’s agriculture sector faces many challenges Sheikh Imtiaz Hussain
Decline in productivity, outdated farming system, poor infrastructure and limited access to markets are major obstacles to the development of the agriculture sector
Karachi: President of Pakistan Agriculture and Horticulture Forum Sheikh Imtiaz Hussain said in a statement that the agriculture sector is facing many challenges in the present era. He said that decline in productivity, outdated farming system, poor infrastructure and limited access to markets are major obstacles to the development of the agriculture sector. Sheikh Imtiaz Hussain said that there is a need to formulate short and long-term strategies to improve the production and export capacity of the agriculture sector. He said that the government should pay special attention to improving agricultural production and exports because more than 70 percent of Pakistan’s population is associated with the agricultural sector. Sheikh Imtiaz Hussain said that Pakistan is one of the world’s largest producers and suppliers of food and crops, while according to the list of countries in terms of GDP sector structure Pakistan ranks eighth globally in farm production. The agriculture sector in Pakistan has seen strong growth with an overall increase of 6.25 percent in 2023-24. He said that crops have seen an extraordinary growth of 11.03 percent Which is a significant improvement over the previous year. Pakistan’s agricultural sector has immense potential to improve productivity, generate exports and play a significant role in economic growth. Agriculture plays a significant role in Pakistan’s GDP and employment. Sheikh Imtiaz Hussain said that strengthening the agricultural sector will not only boost the national economy but will also create employment opportunities, especially in rural areas. By focusing on modernizing the farming system, improving infrastructure, promoting better market access and facilitating trade, Pakistan can unlock the full potential of its agricultural sector and ensure long-term economic benefits. He said that if these opportunities are utilized with the right policies and investments, the future of Pakistan’s agricultural export market can be bright because Pakistan is the largest producer of rice, wheat, cotton and citrus. Pakistan has numerous opportunities to increase its export capacity by improving quality, reducing post-harvest losses and meeting international standards. By meeting these challenges, the country can access new markets and increase foreign exchange earnings. With the right investment in modern farming methods, irrigation systems, and system innovations, Pakistan can significantly improve crop production and efficiency This will not only ensure food security but also increase the country’s competitiveness in global agricultural markets. Agriculture provides raw materials for major industries such as textiles, leather, etc.