Pakistan and Saudi Arabia affirmed their commitment to converting robust political ties into concrete economic and agricultural cooperation on Tuesday.
Minister for National Food Security & Research Rana Tanveer Hussain met with Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan Dr. Rajeh Tami Albugamy to examine ways to bolster bilateral ties in trade, investment, livestock, and agriculture. The talks included a follow-up on the recent visit of the Saudi Minister of Agriculture and the creation of a joint technical team to progress cooperation in priority sectors.
Rana Tanveer Hussain said Pakistan is prepared to increase agricultural exports to Saudi Arabia, specifically focusing on green fodder, livestock products, halal meat, and Basmati rice. Dr. Rajeh Tami Albugamy stated that Pakistani rice currently makes up about 10 percent of Saudi rice imports, while approximately 90 percent of those imports originate from India.
Both sides agreed to tackle issues regarding commercial requirements, packaging, supply volumes, competitiveness, and quality to improve Pakistan's market share. The meeting reviewed cooperation in nine priority areas, including dry camel milk, livestock, meat, rice, and green fodder. The participants discussed promotional activities and participation in Saudi agricultural exhibitions for Pakistani Basmati rice.
Pakistan highlighted its readiness to grow halal meat supplies to Saudi Arabia, noting its significant livestock potential. It was noted that 17 of 31 Pakistani slaughterhouses have gained approval following a technical assessment by Saudi authorities. Rana Tanveer Hussain suggested that Saudi entities invest in livestock farms and modern, high-capacity slaughterhouses via joint ventures with Pakistani business groups.
Both sides stressed the importance of investment opportunities, business-to-business partnerships, and private-sector engagement. Both sides agreed to use the recently established technical mechanism to resolve regulatory and trade bottlenecks. Rajeh Tami Albugamy said he assured the Embassy’s support in facilitating coordination with relevant Saudi authorities and resolving outstanding issues through regular bilateral engagement.
