KEYWORDS
FoodAg-2024, Pakistan Agricultural Exports, International Food and Agriculture Exhibition, B2B Meetings, Global Trade, Investment Opportunities, Pak-China Relations, Halal Markets, TDAP, Export Growth
The second International Food and Agriculture Exhibition (FoodAg-2024) concluded on a high note, securing more than $1.2 billion in deals, marking a significant achievement for Pakistan’s agricultural sector. Held over three days at the Expo Centre in Karachi, the event attracted over 800 buyers from 75 countries, showcasing the nation’s potential as a key player in global food and agriculture markets.
Record-Breaking Deals and International Participation
FoodAg-2024 saw 330 exporters presenting over 500 high-quality products to an international audience. With China leading the charge, over 150 Chinese buyers were among the global attendees, underscoring the event’s international appeal. The exhibition facilitated 7,000 business-to-business (B2B) meetings, resulting in the signing of 36 Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) across various sectors, including rice, processed food, seafood, and a wide range of fruits and vegetables. Notably, Pakistani and Chinese companies signed seafood contracts worth $35 million, highlighting the growing demand for Pakistani products in China.
Growing International Investment Interest
The event also spurred significant investment interest from global companies in dairy, potato seeds, and beverages. To further promote Pakistani exports, the organized factory visits for foreign delegates, allowing them to witness the country’s production capabilities firsthand. Delegations from Malaysia, Egypt, Tajikistan, Japan, and other nations visited various production facilities, strengthening trade ties and exploring new opportunities.
Global Cuisine Show and Key Conferences Drive Engagement
One of the highlights of FoodAg-2024 was the Global Cuisine Show, where culinary artists used Pakistani ingredients to create dishes that captivated media personalities and international delegations. The event also featured the Pak-China Agriculture Investment Conference and Pak-Africa Investment Conference, both aimed at enhancing trade and investment between Pakistan and other participating countries. These conferences focused on critical sectors such as aquaculture, meat, processed food, and agriculture, paving the way for future collaborations.
Government and Industry Leaders Forge Strategic Partnerships
During the event, the Federal Minister of Commerce held productive meetings with delegations from several countries, emphasizing the expansion of bilateral trade, agricultural exports, and the development of halal product markets. The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI) and other trade associations also engaged in extensive negotiations with foreign counterparts. Moreover, regulatory authorities from 13 countries engaged in detailed discussions with their Pakistani counterparts, addressing sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) and quarantine issues, reinforcing Pakistan’s commitment to improving safety standards.
Focus on Africa: A New Frontier for Pakistani Exports
A conference on “Business Opportunities in Africa,” chaired by Ambassador Naeem Khan, was a key feature of the event. This conference focused on enhancing trade and investment between Pakistan and African countries, exploring untapped markets and potential growth areas. The event also included pitching sessions by provincial investment boards, encouraging foreign investment in corporate farming, fisheries, and value-added agricultural products.
Future Prospects: FoodAg Manufacturing Event in Lahore
Looking ahead, TDAP Chief Executive Zubair Motiwalla expressed confidence that the $1.2 billion in export orders secured at FoodAg-2024 will help Pakistan meet its ambitious export targets. He also highlighted the upcoming FoodAg Manufacturing event in Lahore, set to focus on value addition and mechanized farming in Pakistan. This initiative is expected to drive a new green revolution in the country, further enhancing Pakistan’s position in the global agricultural market.
FoodAg-2024 has firmly established itself as a cornerstone event for Pakistan’s agricultural sector, driving significant international interest and investment. The deals inked during the event are not only a testament to the country’s potential but also a stepping stone toward achieving long-term economic growth through agricultural exports.
FoodAg-2024 in Karachi secures over $1.2 billion in deals, attracting 800+ buyers from 75 countries. The event marks a milestone in Pakistan’s agricultural export growth, driving significant international investment and trade opportunities.
