Shehbaz orders faster food exports to Gulf states facing shortages

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed authorities to accelerate food exports to Gulf countries facing supply pressures, while ensuring that Pakistan's own domestic availability is not compromised. He issued the instructions during a high-level meeting in Islamabad reviewing food export strategy and port operations amid a changing regional environment.

The prime minister praised the ministries and departments involved for the progress made so far and called for close coordination with Gulf states to keep supplies uninterrupted. He stressed that surplus food exports should move quickly but said internal supply and demand must be monitored carefully.

Sharif also ordered the preparation of a broader logistics plan to expand flight operations through Karachi, Gwadar, and other major international gateways. Officials said a special committee has already cleared 40 items for export, including rice, sugar, meat, poultry, dairy products, fruits, vegetables, and cooking oil.