Mr. Amir Mohyuddin, Federal Secretary, Ministry of National Food Security and Research, headed a meeting with a delegation from the Quarantine & Plant Protection Department of Uzbekistan, headed by Ibrohim Ergashev, at MNFS&R, Islamabad

Mr. Amir Mohyuddin, Federal Secretary, Ministry of National Food Security and Research, headed a meeting with a delegation from the Quarantine & Plant Protection Department of Uzbekistan, headed by Ibrohim Ergashev, at MNFS&R, Islamabad. The meeting focused on issues related to potato and citrus exports. The following points came under discussion:

Mr. Amir Mohyuddin briefed about the potential of the export of potatoes and citrus to Uzbekistan

He shared insights into the increasing export trends between Pakistan and Uzbekistan over the past two years

He informed that the alternate trade route via Iran has been identified, which could facilitate uninterrupted trade between the two countries.

He raised concerns regarding delays in the issuance of import permits by Uzbekistan, stressing that Pakistan’s citrus export window is limited

Mr. Ibrohim Ergashev shared insights on Uzbekistan’s agricultural imports

Uzbekistan is one of the largest importers of Pakistani potatoes

He assured to hold an urgent meeting with the DG DPP to address the concerns shared by the Federal Secretary over the citrus export window

He highly regarded the quality of Pakistani potatoes

He explained that Pakistan enjoys a competitive advantage due to its fertile land, producing 50–60 tons per hectare, compared to Uzbekistan’s average yield of around 20 tons per hectare.

He also expressed interest in collaboration between PARC and Uzbekistan’s research institutions

He also briefed on the upcoming visit of the Uzbekistan delegation to citrus and potato processing units in Pakistan.

At the conclusion of the meeting, an export protocols signing ceremony for pomegranate and grapes was held. It was further agreed to establish a joint working group to address trade-related issues.