In a recent session hosted by the Pakistan China Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCJCCI), discussions unfolded about the potential for Pakistan and China to join forces in revolutionizing the sugar industry.
Moazzam Ghurki, President of PCJCCI, underscored the strength of the friendship between the two nations and proposed collaborative efforts to produce high-grade sugar for global export.
The Vision for Collaborative Transformation:
Ghurki emphasized the need to connect experts from both nations to enhance cooperation in sugarcane production and processing. He envisioned a significant transformation in sugarcane production through the application of advanced technologies, such as ‘Tissue Culture.’ The reference to the Chinese Academy of Tropical Agriculture Science (CATAS) training scientists globally showcased the potential for cross-border knowledge exchange.
Modernizing Pakistan’s Agricultural Sector:
Fang Yulong, Senior Vice President of PCJCCI, highlighted the necessity for Pakistan to modernize its agricultural sector to meet international standards. He advocated for the adoption of disease-free seedlings and integrated techniques to combat pathogens affecting sugarcane crops, such as viruses and Red Rot (RSD). With the completion of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) on the horizon, Yulong expressed China’s commitment to sharing its latest agricultural technology to uplift Pakistan’s agriculture sector.
Addressing Key Challenges:
Hamza Khalid, Vice President of PCJCCI, stressed the importance of access to leading sugarcane varieties with strong disease resistance for sustainable growth in Pakistan’s sugarcane industry. He proposed the initiation of a collaborative sugarcane breeding program, leveraging China’s expertise to enhance productivity and disease resistance.
Scope of Cooperation and Mutual Learning:
Salahuddin Hanif, Secretary General of PCJCCI, highlighted the vast scope of cooperation between China and Pakistan in the agriculture sector, particularly in sugar production. He emphasized the significance of mutual learning, where both countries could benefit from each other’s experiences and expertise. This collaborative approach could lead to innovations, increased productivity, and the establishment of sustainable practices in the sugar industry.
Conclusion:
The collaborative efforts discussed at the PCJCCI think tank session present a promising vision for the future of the sugar industry in Pakistan and China. By leveraging technological advancements, sharing expertise, and initiating joint breeding programs, the two nations have the potential to bring about a revolutionary transformation. As the CPEC nears completion, the commitment from China to support Pakistan’s agriculture sector with cutting-edge technology signals a new era of cooperation and growth in the sugar industry.
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