Punjab has unveiled an ambitious commercial roadmap seeking to deliver more than Rs 500 billion worth of agricultural, meat, and seafood exports to Saudi Arabia. The trade push took center stage during an official diplomatic meeting in Lahore between Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz and the newly appointed Saudi Ambassador to Pakistan, Dr. Rajih Al-Baqmi.
Key Takeaways
- Punjab sets an export target exceeding Rs 500 billion to expand its presence in the Saudi Arabian market.
- Targeted product lines include live cattle, processed beef, poultry, fresh mangoes, potatoes, and cultivated shrimp.
- The plan aims to provide substantial economic windfalls for Pakistani farmers, commercial food processors, and livestock enterprises.
Diversified Agricultural Export Pipeline
Provincial authorities have identified multiple high-yield supply chains capable of meeting rigorous Gulf quality standards. Rather than relying on traditional grain shipments alone, the export strategy focuses heavily on value-added animal proteins, fresh horticultural produce, and commercial aquaculture.
Key commodities slated for enhanced supply channels include livestock, premium beef, poultry products, table-grade potatoes, and mangoes. Commercial shrimp farming has also been incorporated into the export mix, aligning with Punjab’s recent policy pivot toward developing commercial aquaculture clusters.
Deepening Bilateral Economic Cooperation
During the introductory session with Ambassador Al-Baqmi, the Chief Minister underscored the strategic and economic ties that connect Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. She acknowledged the ongoing economic assistance extended by Riyadh and emphasized transforming historical and diplomatic goodwill into durable trade partnerships.
Achieving the Rs 500 billion benchmark will require synchronized efforts between federal quarantine regulators, regional logistics hubs, and private commercial exporters. If implemented successfully, the export drive is poised to inject essential foreign exchange into the provincial economy while building stable supply links for Saudi retail and wholesale food sectors.