Supporting the dairy industry

Historically, Pakistan has been a major player in the global dairy market. Its important role is reflected in the sector growth of 3.26 per cent in 2020-21, accounting for about 61.89pc of agriculture value additions and 14.06pc of the country’s GDP. As such, it is an important source of foreign exchange earnings, as well as a source of income for over eight million rural families. Within the livestock sector, milk is the largest single commodity. The private sector has primarily dominated the dairy sector. The corporate sector efforts have led to great endeavours in its growth and development, resulting in massive improvements within the industry. Over time, the higher growth in the livestock sector is mainly attributed to milk production. However, the sector generally is not without its indigenous problems. Health hazards pose an enormous threat, especially post-floods, which have given rise to water and air-borne diseases. This has led to uneconomical operational costs facing the dairy industry in the immediate future.