Pakistan’s water crisis poses a long-term challenge to stability and development. Insufficient access to clean water contributes to excess deaths, while water-intensive crops consume a disproportionate amount of water. Reforms in the agricultural sector, prioritizing high-value exports and reducing dependence on cotton, can help alleviate water stress. International partners should support sustainable practices, and reallocation of IMF Special Drawing Rights can incentivize positive change. Pakistan must prioritize clean water and implement agricultural reforms for long-term stability and development.

Pakistan’s water crisis remains a long-term challenge, exacerbating socioeconomic disparities and posing a threat to stability. Reforms are hindered by elite interests, political uncertainty, and lack of prioritization from international lenders. Immediate action is needed to address the crisis, improve water governance, and incentivize policy changes. Failure to do so could have severe implications for regional stability. Access to clean water is essential, yet millions of Pakistanis still lack it due to issues of equity and distribution. Agricultural reform, diversifying exports, and international support are crucial to mitigating the crisis.

The Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan will host the ‘Biryani Festival’ at President House in Islamabad on December 4, 2023, aiming to showcase the rich culinary heritage of Pakistan to diplomats and guests. This event will also serve to enhance the export of ‘Basmati’ rice.

Pakistan’s water crisis poses a significant threat to society due to unequal access to clean water and the compounded effects of aging infrastructure and weak governance. Reforms are hindered by elite interests tied to water-intensive agriculture, but the current landscape presents an opportunity for change as climate change impacts become more evident. Agricultural reforms, including phasing out water-intensive cash crops and encouraging export diversification, can address the crisis and promote water security and economic growth. International support and incentives are crucial for Pakistan to implement necessary policy changes.

Foreign diplomats from various countries recently visited the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI) in Islamabad to strengthen economic and trade relations, exploring opportunities in sectors such as IT, wind power, agriculture, and more. Pakistan aims to foster stronger relationships and boost exports.

Despite factors like lower raw material prices and a stronger rupee, consumers in Pakistan are still dealing with high utility bills and inflated prices of essential items. Manufacturers and retailers are not passing on the cost savings to consumers, and efforts by the government to tackle price manipulation have had limited impact. More needs to be done to address this situation.

Pakistan’s food exports have surged by 30% in the first four months of the fiscal year, totaling $1.9447 billion. Rice exports witnessed a remarkable growth of 30%, while fruit and spice exports increased by 13.53% and 24.56% respectively. Notably, the export of oilseeds and fruits skyrocketed by 292%. Despite a decline in tobacco exports, these positive trends contribute to Pakistan’s economic performance.

India faces scrutiny over the extension of the PM Garib Kalyan Ann Yojna foodgrains scheme and the ban on non-basmati rice exports, with concerns raised regarding WTO compatibility and minimum support prices commitments. WTO members including the United States, European Union, Canada, Australia, Switzerland, and New Zealand seek clarification during the CoA meeting.

India is being questioned by world leaders at the WTO regarding the compatibility of the PM Garib Kalyan Ann Yojna scheme and the ban on non-basmati rice exports. Concerns have been raised about India’s minimum support prices commitments and export restrictions.

The export of Pakistani food has surged by 30% in the first four months of the fiscal year, reaching a value of over $1.9 billion. Rice exports have seen the most significant increase, followed by fruits and spices, showcasing the potential of the country’s agricultural industry.