PHHSA Embraces Prime Minister’s Agriculture and Seed Sector Initiatives
Published on: March 19, 2024.
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Pakistan’s Hi-tec Hybrid Seed Association (PHHSA) has commended Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s efforts to boost the country’s agriculture economy and seed sector. In his inaugural speech to the National Assembly, the Prime Minister announced plans to import high-quality, high-yield seeds to enhance farm output and take action against issues in the seed sector.
The PHHSA Chairman, Shahzad Ali Malik, praised the government’s commitment to the agriculture and seed sectors, stating that agriculture is a key pillar of Pakistan’s economy. He also expressed appreciation for the plans to establish a dedicated, autonomous body called the National Seed Development & Regulatory Authority (NSDRA) and the appointment of Dr. Asif Ali Khan as its chairman. Khan, who has a successful record in research and management, will lead the NSDRA.
The LCCI President, Kashif Anwar, also welcomed the government’s focus on the agriculture sector, emphasizing the need to increase yield and boost foreign exchange earnings. He highlighted the potential for agriculture to alleviate poverty in the country.
Shahzad Ali Malik, who has played a significant role in introducing hybrid seed technology in Pakistan, noted that the country’s rice exports have grown by 600% in the past 20 years, reaching $3 billion. He attributed this growth to the adoption of hybrid technology and extensive local R&D. Malik expressed optimism that rice exports could surpass $5 billion by 2027.
Malik also highlighted the need to replicate the success of hybrid rice in other crops such as cotton and wheat. By doing so, Pakistan could achieve import substitution of approximately $10 billion and have surplus production for export.
The PHHSA Chairman urged authorities to focus on increasing per-acre crop output through the use of high-yielding quality seeds. He emphasized the importance of utilizing the expertise gained from Chinese scientists and investing in extensive local research and development.
Overall, the PHHSA and LCCI praised the government’s initiatives to boost the agriculture economy and improve the seed sector. They expressed optimism for the future of Pakistan’s agriculture industry and its potential to contribute to economic growth.
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