Government Accelerates Potato Exports To Manage Surplus Stocks

In a significant move to manage surplus potato stocks and bolster exports, the federal government of Pakistan is accelerating potato exports, as highlighted in a recent meeting chaired by Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain. The meeting, which involved key stakeholders including provincial agriculture representatives and exporters, addressed the challenges of increased freight costs and logistical constraints. Hussain emphasized the urgency of utilizing the current export window, particularly targeting Central Asian markets, stating, "Coordinated and time-bound interventions were necessary to protect growers' interests and enhance agricultural exports." The government aims to streamline operations and facilitate smoother cross-border trade to prevent distress sales among farmers. The committee's decisions included proposals for concessional freight rates and improved coordination with logistics providers to ensure the effective movement of surplus stocks.