Qatar Expresses Interest in Boosting Rice Imports

Federal Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan convened a virtual meeting with his counterpart from Qatar’s Ministry of State for Foreign Trade Affairs, Dr Ahmad bin Mohammed Al-Sayed. The meeting aimed to consolidate and expand economic cooperation between Pakistan and Qatar.

Both ministers commended the burgeoning strength in bilateral relations, emphasizing their commitment to fostering greater interaction within their business sectors. A primary focus during the discussion was bolstering Pakistan’s rice exports and other food products into Qatar. Dr Ahmad bin Mohammed Al-Sayed underscored the strategic importance of rice as a critical aspect of Qatar’s national food security program.

To this end, Jam Kamal Khan assured his Qatari counterpart that Pakistan was actively enhancing its export competitiveness, aligning with the demands of the Qatari market. New strategies were being implemented to ensure more competitive pricing and supply systems could be established. Furthermore, they agreed on a collaborative approach between relevant departments to enable direct engagement between Pakistani exporters and Qatar’s importers.

The meeting also touched upon investment opportunities in various sectors, including infrastructure, logistics, and energy. Projects such as the expansion of Karachi Port were highlighted as potential areas for collaboration. Both ministers welcomed Pakistan’s proposals, with Al-Sayed indicating that their counterparts at the Qatar Investment Authority would conduct a thorough review.

This virtual dialogue reaffirmed both countries’ dedication to strengthening economic ties and diversifying cooperation beyond traditional trade sectors.