Pakistan reinforced its commitment to an export-driven economic strategy at Gulfood 2026, the world’s largest food and beverage exhibition. Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal visited the country’s pavilion, encouraging exporters to focus on value addition and expand into global markets.
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During his tour, the minister praised the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) and the Pakistan Mission for ensuring a strong national presence. He highlighted that the large number of Pakistani exhibitors reflected a positive momentum in the export sector.
Minister Iqbal stated that increasing exports under the Uraan Pakistan initiative is the government’s foremost priority to move the economy towards self-reliance. He described export growth as the only sustainable route to reducing dependence on the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and external debt, and welcomed the private sector’s increasing focus on value-added products.
The minister also visited the Biryani Festival stall organized by TDAP, appreciating efforts to promote Pakistani basmati rice internationally. The visit was attended by key industry representatives, including the Chairman of the Pakistan Business Council Dubai and the Chairman of the Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan.
Pakistan’s active participation at Gulfood underscores a strategic push to showcase its agricultural and food products on a global platform, aiming to boost foreign exchange earnings and achieve long-term economic stability.
