ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has begun reviewing alternative export routes and measures to secure agricultural supplies as the ongoing conflict in the Middle East raises concerns over disruptions to key shipping lanes and energy supplies.
According to state media, senior government officials held separate meetings on Monday to assess the availability of perishable food items and fertilizer stocks. The discussions were led by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Federal Minister for Food Security Rana Tanveer Hussain.
The meetings come amid rising regional tensions following US and Israeli strikes on Iran, which have sparked fears about the safety of important maritime trade routes in the Middle East.
Pakistan relies significantly on sea routes passing through the region for both fuel imports and exports of agricultural and food products, making any disruption particularly critical for the country’s economy.
Domestic availability
During a meeting of the prime minister’s committee chaired by Dar, officials reviewed the supply and export of perishable food items. The committee discussed ways to maintain adequate domestic availability while ensuring that surplus produce continues to reach international markets.
Officials also examined possible alternative sea routes, new export destinations and improved logistics systems to support exporters. Discussions included proposals from industry stakeholders, along with assessments of global demand and pricing trends to enhance the competitiveness of Pakistan’s food exports.
In a separate meeting, Food Security Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain assured that fertilizer supply would remain stable despite regional uncertainties.
He emphasised that the government would safeguard agricultural productivity and food security by ensuring uninterrupted fertilizer distribution across the country.
The Fertilizer Review Committee also evaluated pricing and distribution mechanisms to prevent artificial shortages and hoarding. Authorities said close monitoring would continue to ensure farmers have access to fertilizers at reasonable prices.
