ISLAMABAD, The Caretaker Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Dr. Kausar Abdullah Malik, highlighted the significant role of the Department of Plant Protection (DPP) in bolstering the economy and agricultural trade during his visit to Karachi Port Trust and a subsequent meeting at the DPP Karachi.

According to the Press Information Department, during the meeting on October 21, Minister Malik commended the DPP for its crucial role in regulating the import and export of agricultural goods and protecting the country’s plantations through its quarantine facilities. He expressed satisfaction with the digitization process at the DPP, which has led to 100% efficiency in the quarantine facility for agricultural imports and exports.

The Minister noted that the DPP’s agreement with the government on single-window operations would significantly streamline processes and benefit trade within the country. He emphasized that due to DPP’s effective and efficient role, Pakistan’s agricultural clearance certificates are now accepted in over 130 countries, reflecting increased global confidence in Pakistan’s plant protection measures.

Dr. Malik also discussed revenue generation, stating his intention to address the finance ministry about reallocating some of the DPP’s generated revenue for its capacity building. During the meeting, issues related to infrastructure and administration were raised, to which the Minister assured every possible assistance.

This development marks a significant step forward in Pakistan’s agricultural sector, enhancing its efficiency in trade and bolstering its standing in the global community in terms of plant protection and safety.