Food Minister Cautions Exporters to Maintain Quality and Offers Support
Published on: June 3, 2024.
Filed under:
Government Focuses on Streamlining Registration System for Pesticides
The government of Pakistan is determined to increase exports and has taken a step towards this goal by announcing plans to digitalize the registration system for pesticides. The Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, emphasized the need to establish an effective inspection system for rice and mango plants during a meeting with the director general of plant protection, Dr Tariq Khan. The minister highlighted the importance of conducting timely inspections to ensure the quality of agricultural crops.
Agricultural pesticides are essential for protecting crops from pests and diseases, ensuring food security, and maintaining economic stability. However, concerns have been raised about the negative effects of incorrect pesticide use and over-reliance on them in Pakistan. Adverse effects on human health, the environment, and sustainable agriculture have become a cause for alarm.
To boost exports, the government will provide exporters with necessary facilities while ensuring compliance with quality and standards. The minister stated, “Exporters will be provided with all possible facilities within the law to boost exports, but compromise on quality and standards will not be acceptable.”
Streamlined Digital Registration System
The government’s strong commitment to increasing exports will be achieved through a comprehensive strategy that includes improving the fumigation system and increasing the number of fumigation companies. The Minister for National Food Security and Research highlighted the significant role of the plant protection department (PPD) in the agriculture sector.
The director general of the PPD briefed the minister on the department’s functions, performance, and challenges. In response, Mr. Hussain expressed the government’s plans to develop a comprehensive strategy to enhance the PPD’s performance, ensuring its operations meet high-quality benchmarks.
Efforts will be made to promote merit and transparency within the department, and corruption and inefficiency will not be tolerated. By digitalizing the system, the government aims to ensure transparency in operations and bring the PPD up to modern standards. The minister also emphasized the need to address the staff shortage in the department by utilizing all available resources.
The government’s proactive approach to streamlining the registration system for pesticides is a significant step towards enhancing the agricultural sector in Pakistan.
