Malaysia enhances agricultural and food imports from Pakistan

Malaysia is aiming to increase its import of agricultural and food products from Pakistan following a meeting hosted by the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP). The meeting included a nine-member Malaysian delegation led by His Excellency Mr. Dato Syed Abu Hassan. The meeting focused on enhancing bilateral trade ties, particularly on exporting rice, meat, fruits, vegetables, and fisheries to Malaysia. Malaysia has reiterated its commitment to augment imports of agro and food products from Pakistan as part of Malaysia’s Special National Action Council’s strategy. This strategy aims to ensure subsidized food supplies for its population, including a significant procurement of 100,000 metric tons of rice under the “Madani Rice” scheme.

Key Highlights of the Meeting

• Rice Exports: Pakistan’s exports to Malaysia have surged to USD 339 million in 2023-24, marking a significant increase and demonstrating Pakistan’s capability to supply premium varieties such as basmati and white rice.
• Halal Meat and Fisheries: The discussions highlighted efforts to increase Pakistan’s share in Malaysia’s halal beef and seafood markets, with assurances of meeting Malaysia’s stringent quality standards.
• Fresh Produce: There is a growing demand in Malaysia for Pakistani potatoes, onions, and tropical fruits such as mangoes and kinnows, which represents a key growth area for Pakistan’s agro exports.
• Trade Facilitation: The meeting underscored the importance of leveraging the Malaysia-Pakistan Closer Economic Partnership Agreement (MPCEPA) to reduce tariffs and improve market access for Pakistani products.

Mr. Zubair Motiwala reaffirmed TDAP’s commitment to enhancing Pakistan’s agro-export potential, stating, “Malaysia remains a key trading partner in Southeast Asia. We will work closely with stakeholders, including exporters and regulatory authorities, to ensure compliance with Malaysian standards and maximize export opportunities.”