FoodAg-2024: a catalyst for Pakistan’s agri-export boom

The 2nd International Food and Agriculture Exhibition, FoodAg-2024, opened its doors at the Karachi Expo Centre, heralding a new era of growth for Pakistan’s agricultural sector. Inaugurated by Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, the event, organized by the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) under the Ministry of Commerce, showcased a promising future with $1.2 billion in agricultural deals signed over three days.

Attracting over 800 international buyers from 75 countries and featuring 330 local exporters, the exhibition displayed more than 500 premium agricultural products, drawing significant interest, particularly from China, which contributed to over 150 buyers. The surge in agricultural exports, which hit a record $8 billion during the 2023-24 period—a 37% increase from the previous year—underscores Pakistan’s rising prominence in the global agri-food market.

Key highlights from FoodAg-2024 included the engagement of a Russian delegation that was interested in Pakistani fresh fruits and fish, marking a potential expansion into new markets. The event facilitated over 36 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), especially in sectors like rice, seafood, and processed foods, with substantial contracts like the $35 million deal in the seafood sector with Chinese firms.

The B2B networking sessions proved instrumental, resulting in lucrative agreements with countries including China, Malaysia, Egypt, and France, among others. High-profile investments announced during the event include ventures by Huiyuan Beverages & Food Group from China and METAS from Qatar, indicating a robust interest in Pakistan’s agricultural capabilities.

Federal Minister of Commerce Jam Kamal Khan held productive discussions with various international delegations, focusing on expanding bilateral trade and enhancing infrastructure for agricultural exports. The sideline Pak-China Agri Investment Conference and the Pak-Africa Investment Conference further emphasized the fertile ground for future collaborations and investments.

Looking ahead, Mr. Zubair Motiwalla, Chief Executive of TDAP, announced the upcoming FoodAg Manufacturing event in Lahore this December, aimed at advancing value addition and mechanized farming in Pakistan. This initiative is expected to usher in a new green revolution, reinforcing the optimistic trajectory of the nation’s agricultural sector.