Food minister warns exporters against compromise on quality; pledges help

Reiterating the government’s resolve to increasing exports, Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain on Sunday said that the registration system for pesticides would be digitalised to streamline the processes. During a meeting with the director general of plant protection, Dr Tariq Khan, the minister said, “An effective system for the inspection of rice and mango plants must be established.” Inspections, he added, would be conducted in a timely manner to ensure quality. Agricultural pesticides play a vital role in protecting crops from pests and diseases, ensuring food security and economic stability. However, a wrong use and over-reliance on pesticides in Pakistan have raised concerns about their adverse effects on human health, environment, and sustainable agriculture. “Exporters will be provided with all possible facilities within the law to boost exports, but compromise on quality and standards will not be acceptable,” the minister said.