Pakistan, Russia Strengthen Agricultural Trade Ties Amid Resolution of Export Hurdles

ISLAMABAD — Pakistan’s Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, has reaffirmed the country’s strong commitment to enhancing bilateral trade in agriculture with the Russian Federation. The pledge came during a meeting with the Russian Ambassador to Pakistan, where both sides held detailed discussions on deepening cooperation and removing trade barriers.

The meeting underscored the warmth of long-standing diplomatic ties between Islamabad and Moscow, focusing particularly on boosting collaboration in the agricultural sector. The two officials exchanged views on facilitating trade, resolving phytosanitary concerns, and exploring new opportunities for mutual benefit.

During the discussions, Minister Rana Tanveer addressed challenges encountered in Pakistan’s citrus and potato exports to Russia earlier this year. He emphasized the need for swift resolution of these issues to ensure uninterrupted trade and sustain mutual economic growth.

The minister highlighted that Pakistan’s Department of Plant Protection (DPP) had conducted a thorough technical investigation into objections raised by the Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance (FSVPS) of Russia regarding citrus shipments. He noted that:

• The DPP’s findings, supported by pest surveys, laboratory results, and international literature, confirmed no evidence of Mediterranean Fruit Fly infestation.
• Based on this technical engagement, the FSVPS subsequently withdrew its objection concerning Pakistani citrus imports.

Regarding potato exports, the minister shared that the DPP had provided comprehensive scientific data to Russian authorities, proving the absence of the pests and viral diseases identified in the Russian observations.

In response, the Russian ambassador assured Minister Hussain of his immediate action to engage relevant Russian authorities. He pledged to expedite the clearance of enroute potato shipments and ensure the restoration of full-scale potato trade.

The Russian envoy presented proposals for introducing new trade avenues, particularly in agricultural machinery, to further strengthen bilateral cooperation.

The Ministry of National Food Security and Research reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to promoting science-based trade practices and fostering transparent, technical dialogue to resolve trade-related challenges.

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