Islamabad: Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, has underscored the need for substantial reforms in Pakistan’s dairy sector to tackle nutritional challenges and stimulate economic growth. During a high-level meeting with the Pakistan Dairy Association, he highlighted the critical issues of milk quality and malnutrition, particularly the stunting affecting nearly 40 percent of children in the country.

According to Press Information Department, Hussain noted that despite high milk consumption rates, much of the milk in the market fails to meet quality standards, posing health risks. He emphasized that the dairy sector is pivotal to the national economy, contributing to GDP and supporting millions of rural families. The Minister stressed the importance of improving milk safety and quality to combat malnutrition and enhance public health.

Hussain identified structural challenges in the sector, such as a significant portion of milk production outside formal systems. He called for the adoption of modern dairy practices and improved livestock management to boost productivity and farmer incomes. The Minister also advocated for strengthening the dairy value chain with better infrastructure and initiatives like Safe Milk City to ensure quality milk availability.

He highlighted the need for a supportive policy framework to encourage investment and growth in the dairy industry, suggesting a balanced taxation regime to expand the formal sector. The Pakistan Dairy Association presented sectoral challenges and proposals for improvement, which the Minister appreciated, reaffirming the government’s commitment to policy reforms.

Concluding the meeting, Hussain reiterated the importance of transforming the dairy sector for food security, nutrition, and economic development, emphasizing the role of coordinated efforts between the government and private sector in realizing the industry’s potential.