Pakistan researcher calls for dedicated organic meat and dairy zones
Najam Mazari, head of an institute researching organic food and related products, said demand for Pakistani meat was increasing in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman, China, Malaysia and Central Asian countries. He identified this demand as an opportunity to expand overseas sales of organic meat, dairy goods and other natural food commodities.
Mazari called for the federal government to establish a national platform named the Pakistan Organic and Halal Export Mission. He said the platform should promote organic production, assist producers with international certification, arrange quality testing and traceability, and build connections with buyers in foreign markets.
He said organic meat production would require livestock to receive balanced natural feed. It would also depend on safe conditions for animals and processing facilities that met international standards. Mazari separately urged the government to create dedicated production zones for organic meat and dairy products.
Mazari said small and medium-sized farmers should receive training, technical support and financial assistance to cover certification expenses. The proposals were presented as measures for helping producers meet the requirements associated with organic markets.
He also proposed marketing Pakistan’s traditional halal products abroad under organic standards. According to Mazari, this could increase the export value of those products and give exporters opportunities to obtain higher prices. He said the approach would help Pakistan strengthen its position in the international market for premium-quality food products.
Mazari proposed that a comprehensive plan be prepared jointly by the Ministry of National Food Security and Research, the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan, relevant research institutions and private-sector representatives. The suggested cooperation would cover the development of organic production and the expansion of related exports.
