Potential for Food Cooperation Between Pakistan and GCC Countries
Published on: December 1, 2023.
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Food security and regional cooperation are crucial for economic growth and development. In the context of geo-economics, access to quality and nutritious food plays a significant role in public health and labor productivity. While GCC countries import a large percentage of their food requirements, Pakistan and Egypt face challenges in terms of food insecurity due to population growth, high food inflation, and poverty.
Establishing sufficient buffer food stocks is essential to overcome supply chain disruptions and emergencies. Pakistan, with its Indus basin, extensive canal network, and vast land resources, has the potential to contribute to regional food security. By leveraging its geographical advantage and lower transportation costs, Pakistan, along with Egypt and Sudan, can supply food items to GCC countries at competitive prices. For example, 70% of Pakistan’s meat exports in 2020 went to GCC countries, and the Gulf is also a significant buyer of Pakistani rice.
To ensure sustainable water management and increase food production, Pakistan needs to focus on constructing more water reservoirs for storage during summer months when water is abundant. Additionally, promoting the cultivation of crops that require less water, such as wheat, barley, and maize, can help optimize water usage. Balochistan, which is close to the Gulf, has vast untapped cultivable land, making it a potential area for large-scale farming and establishing cattle farms.
In order to attract foreign investments in agriculture and other sectors, Pakistan has established the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC). This council, working directly with the Prime Minister’s office and the provincial chief ministers, offers a one-window operation to streamline the approval process for foreign investors. The SIFC aims to attract investments in agriculture and livestock corporate farming, with a focus on the Cholistan area. Pakistan has proposed investments of six billion dollars from countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, and Bahrain over the next three to five years.
Regional cooperation and knowledge sharing in areas like seed research, crop patterns, and animal pedigrees are crucial for achieving food security. The exchange of research findings and best practices between regional countries, including Pakistan, Egypt, and Sudan, can contribute to optimum economic growth, prosperity, and overall security and development.
Source: [Arab News](https://www.arabnews.pk)
