ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is actively working to integrate its trade and climate strategies to protect the nation’s food supply chain amid rising concerns over affordability and operational efficiency. Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan convened a meeting with Romina Khurshid Alam, the newly appointed Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change, alongside representatives from the country’s food supply sector.
The discussion centered on harmonizing Pakistan’s trade and climate policies to build a resilient, efficient, and sustainable food supply system in response to shifting global and domestic pressures. While participants acknowledged that food availability and access remain relatively stable, they stressed the urgent need to address affordability and streamline supply chain operations.
The delegation underscored the importance of minimizing disruptions in critical industries, particularly the dairy and food sectors, which are vulnerable to energy supply fluctuations and logistical challenges. Minister Jam Kamal Khan reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring uninterrupted economic activity in these vital sectors, emphasizing that enhanced energy management and improved logistics are crucial to reinforcing supply chains.
He further noted that sustainable trade growth hinges on fortifying domestic supply networks and fostering stronger coordination between federal and provincial authorities. Romina Khurshid Alam highlighted the necessity of embedding climate resilience within food systems, advocating for climate-smart agricultural practices, efficient resource use, and waste reduction as pillars of long-term food security.
She also pointed out the government’s efforts to promote behavioral shifts, energy conservation, and environmentally responsible industrial practices. The delegation provided detailed insights into fuel consumption trends, transport inefficiencies, and the urgent need to optimize freight systems, including better utilization of trucking capacity and increased reliance on rail transport.
Both parties concurred that policy initiatives should prioritize efficiency enhancements over restrictive measures to maintain economic momentum. Special focus was placed on advancing alternative mobility solutions, digital supply chain management, and fostering public-private partnerships to boost productivity while minimizing environmental impact.
The meeting concluded with an agreement to develop a coordinated framework between commerce and climate institutions aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s food systems, ensuring industry continuity, and promoting sustainable economic growth.
