Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Commerce & Industries, Dr. Gohar Ejaz, announced the first-ever consignment of dry chilies would leave Pakistan on Wednesday (Dec 20) for China, marking the start of a new era in Pakistan’s agricultural exports.
“I would like to appreciate the support extended by the Chinese government in opening this huge market for Pakistani exports. This will not only enhance our exports but also empower our poor farmers, generating more employment and bringing prosperity to the country,” Dr. Gohar Ejaz stated.
He congratulated the Ministry of Commerce, Industry Ministry, Ministry of National Food Security and Research, and TDAP Pakistan’s trade mission in China for diligently working on concluding the protocol and completing the compliance modalities in only four months.
“Under the China-Pakistan FTA, Pakistan enjoys zero tariffs, giving us an additional competitive edge compared to other countries in the region. This will not only boost our exports but also empower our poor farmers to create more employment opportunities and foster prosperity in the country,” he mentioned.
Minister Ejaz noted that China has a significant demand for dry chilies. Given Pakistan’s geographical and political proximity to China, the advantages of the FTA, and local strengths, including a competitive labor force and fertile land, Pakistan is well-positioned to increase its exports to China.
“We must embrace new technology, hybrid seeds, corporate farming, and benchmark agricultural practices. I am aware that some Chinese players are already collaborating with local farmers, providing resources to cultivate high-quality chilies. This event moves us a step closer to a sustainable trade balance between Pakistan and China. I believe Pakistan has immense potential to expand its exports, especially in agricultural goods, to China,” he added.
