China to help Pakistan boost meat exports, fisheries sector

China and Pakistan are moving forward to strengthen cooperation in animal husbandry and fishery sectors. Experts and prominent companies from both sectors continue to hold bilateral dialogue to discuss educational and industrial programmes in this regard, and possible measures to enact such cooperation. Fakhar Imam, Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research has urged Pakistan to modernise its livestock and fishery industries by upgrading infrastructure and building a substantial supply chain through joint enterprises with China, technology transfer and talent cultivation. He also point out a number of challenges facing these sectors, while also highlighting potential of expansion in Chinese markets. Moreover, Li Jinhui, Deputy Secretary General of China Animal Agriculture Association and President of China Broiler Alliance, said, “China is the largest importer of beef and a major importer of mutton and chicken. This presents enormous opportunities to Pakistan to enhance its beef and mutton exports. Zhang Baozhong, Chairman of China Overseas Ports Holding Company has highlighted a number of viruses and diseases found in Pakistan’s livestock, whereas under the MoU on combatting FMD signed between China and Pakistan in 2019, China will help Pakistan establish FMD-free zones in Punjab and Balochistan to ensure the health of the food animals.