Convener Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) Regional Committee on Food Shahid Imran has said that Pakistan has immense potential to meet the growing food requirements of Saudi Arabia, particularly in the supply of fresh fruits and vegetables.
Talking to a delegation of food exporters, here on Sunday, he said Saudi Arabia imports over 80 percent of its food needs, with a strong demand for high-quality, pesticide-free, and organically grown produce. Pakistani fruits such as mangoes, kinnow, apples, and dates, along with vegetables including onions, potatoes, tomatoes, and okra, are already well-recognized in Gulf markets for their quality and taste. By strengthening bilateral cooperation in agricultural trade, he said, Pakistan can become a reliable supplier ensuring sustainable food supply to the Kingdom.
He noted that Pakistan’s proximity to Saudi Arabia provides a logistical advantage, offering lower transportation costs and fresher deliveries compared to other exporters. With focused policies, private sector investment, and stronger trade diplomacy, Pakistan can emerge as a key food supplier to Saudi Arabia, boosting export revenues, generating rural employment, and strengthening fraternal economic ties between the two countries.
He emphasized that to realize this potential, both nations should establish joint ventures in agri-processing, storage, and logistics, while adopting modern farming techniques such as hydroponics and controlled-environment agriculture. Harmonizing quality and certification standards, he added, would further build confidence among Saudi importers.