Islamabad: Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, met with representatives from Philip Morris International to address issues concerning the regulatory landscape of the tobacco industry, along with its export performance and future trajectory.

The Minister emphasized the necessity of promptly processing the Minimum Indicative Price (MIP) notification. He highlighted the need for timely administrative actions to prevent uncertainty and financial disruption for stakeholders, including farmers and exporters.

Reaffirming the government’s dedication to a predictable and efficient regulatory framework, Hussain noted the critical role agricultural sectors like tobacco play in employment, rural development, and foreign exchange earnings. He stressed the importance of supporting these sectors to safeguard the interests of growers.

Hussain pointed out that Pakistan’s tobacco exports have surpassed the USD 100 million mark, bringing substantial foreign exchange into the country. He acknowledged the contributions of multinational corporations that operate within Pakistan’s legal framework and contribute to national development.

The Minister stressed the need for central oversight at the federal level to maintain coherent policymaking and prevent regulatory fragmentation that could impede sectoral growth. He assured stakeholders that the Ministry of National Food Security and Research is committed to fostering a stable and investment-friendly environment.

Concluding the meeting, Hussain assured that the concerns raised are being addressed with a focus on facilitating early resolutions to support national economic development.