Value Addition in Agriculture Vital for Economic Growth, Export Promotion: Rana Mashhood
Pakistan is an agriculture-based economy, and promoting the agricultural sector is a top priority for the government, according to Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, Chairman of the Prime Minister’s Youth Programme (PMYP). He made these remarks at the Pakistan Date Festival organized by Lahore Organic Village on September 05, 2026.
Rana Mashhood emphasized that value addition in agricultural products, including dates, is crucial for economic growth and increasing exports, aligning with the vision of Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif. He noted that while Pakistan is among the major date-producing countries globally, historically most dates have been exported as raw agricultural produce.
However, young entrepreneurs are now developing value-added date products and introducing them to domestic and international markets. Mashhood stressed the need for a common platform to support these entrepreneurs, facilitate marketing, and connect them with global markets. The government, he assured, is committed to providing such assistance.
He suggested that Pakistan should introduce top-quality date varieties alongside indigenous ones, boost production, and enhance their export potential. These steps, Rana Mashhood added, would strengthen the agricultural sector and increase exports, contributing to sustainable economic growth.
The PMYP chairman highlighted the government's focus on small businesses, young entrepreneurs, and value-added sectors, ensuring that agricultural investment and modern farming techniques are accessible to all. He also mentioned the Youth Business and Agriculture Loan Programme, providing training in various modern fields, including technical education, hospitality, and information technology.