AVN News Desk
ISLAMABAD: Dr Gohar Ejaz, the caretaker Federal Minister for Commerce and Industries, announced a groundbreaking achievement in Pakistan’s agricultural exports as the inaugural shipment of dried chilies is on its way to China.
The Commerce Ministry says this milestone was achieved through the efforts of Litong Food Co Ltd, beginning a new era in the trade relationship between Pakistan and China.
Minister Ejaz lauded the support of the Chinese government in establishing a substantial market for Pakistani goods within China.
“I am delighted to announce that the first-ever consignment of dried chilies is on its way to China. This achievement not only shows the capabilities of our exporters but also highlights the potential for further collaboration between Pakistani and Chinese businesses,” stated the minister.
Emphasizing the vast potential, the minister said Pakistan’s exports to China could surpass $20 billion in the coming years. However, he said this goal necessitates concerted efforts from Pakistani agricultural exporters.
Ejaz urged exporters to maintain high-quality standards, enhance productivity, and implement effective marketing strategies to meet the expectations of the Chinese market.
Acknowledging the role of Chinese companies, the minister expressed optimism about collaboration prospects. “If our companies can meet the standards set by the Chinese authorities, our exports can soar. I congratulate the Ministry of Commerce, the Ministry of National Food Security and Research, the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan, and our Mission in China for their dedicated work in finalizing protocols and completing compliance formalities in just four months,” added Ejaz.
Benefiting from the Pakistan-China Free Trade Agreement, Pakistan enjoys a competitive edge with zero tariffs, positioning it uniquely in the region.
The minister underscored the immense growth potential in the Chinese market, particularly in the agricultural sector, and advocated for the adoption of new technologies such as hybrid seeds and openness to corporate farming.
“Our Chinese brothers have opened their doors for us, be it the Ministry of Commerce, the Agriculture Ministry, COFCO—the largest agricultural goods importer with $100 billion worth of imports—or the mayors of the cities we visited. The enduring Pak-China relationship has withstood the test of time, and this dried chilies export will pave the way for Pakistani agricultural goods to reach new markets in China,” added Ejaz.
