TDAP Hosts High-Level Malaysian Delegation to Boost Agro and Food Trade

Both parties agreed to enhance cooperation

through trade delegations, capacity-building

initiatives, and market intelligence sharing

Staff Reporter

Karachi: The Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), under the Ministry of Commerce, hosted a nine-member Malaysian delegation led by His Excellency Mr. Dato Syed Abu Hassan. The meeting, chaired by TDAP Chief Executive Mr. Zubair Motiwala and Secretary TDAP Mr. Sheryar Taj, aimed to strengthen bilateral trade in agro and food products, focusing on rice, meat, fruits, vegetables, and fisheries.

Malaysia’s Commitment to Boost Agro Imports

H.E. Mr. Dato Syed Abu Hassan emphasized Malaysia’s commitment to increasing imports from Pakistan under the directive of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. This effort aligns with Malaysia’s Special National Action Council agenda to ensure subsidized food supplies, including procuring 100,000 metric tons of rice under the “Madani Rice” scheme.

Key Areas of Discussion

• Rice Exports: Pakistan’s rice exports to Malaysia reached USD 339 million in 2023-24, driven by premium varieties like basmati and white rice. Malaysia expressed interest in expanding imports to meet domestic demand.
• Halal Meat and Fisheries: The meeting explored enhancing exports of halal beef and seafood, with TDAP assuring compliance with Malaysia’s stringent quality standards.
• Fresh Produce: Malaysia’s growing demand for potatoes, onions, and tropical fruits such as mangoes and kinnows was identified as a significant opportunity for Pakistan’s exporters.
• Trade Facilitation: Both sides agreed on leveraging the Malaysia-Pakistan Closer Economic Partnership Agreement (MPCEPA) to reduce tariffs and improve market access for Pakistani products.

Strengthening Bilateral Trade Ties

Mr. Zubair Motiwala reiterated TDAP’s commitment to boosting Pakistan’s agro-export potential. He stated, “Malaysia remains a key trading partner in Southeast Asia. TDAP will work with exporters and regulators to ensure compliance with Malaysian standards and maximize export opportunities.”

H.E. Mr. Dato appreciated Pakistan’s agricultural potential and acknowledged TDAP and the Ministry of Commerce’s efforts to foster trade relations. Both parties agreed to enhance cooperation through trade delegations, capacity-building initiatives, and market intelligence sharing.

Vision for Long-Term Collaboration

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to not only increase bilateral trade but also explore avenues for sustained economic collaboration in the agro-food sector.