KARACHI: A high-powered Chinese delegation has expressed “keen interest” in making investments in seed development, precision farming, smart irrigation systems and agro-processing in Pakistan, the Pakistani national food security ministry said on Tuesday.

The Chinese delegation, comprising senior officials, agricultural scientists, and private sector representatives, met with National Food Security Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain to explore enhanced cooperation in the field of agriculture.

The two sides discussed joint strategies to modernize Pakistan’s agricultural sector and to initiate collaborative efforts in research, innovation and investment, with the delegation highlighting China’s agricultural advancements and willingness to transfer expertise.

“Through collaboration with China, Pakistan can introduce scientific research, climate-resilient practices, and modern technology that will uplift the productivity of local farmers and ensure long-term food security,” Hussain told the Chinese delegates, stressing the urgent need to formalize agreements between Pakistani and Chinese agricultural institutions.

The agriculture sector contributes nearly a quarter of Pakistan’s gross domestic product (GDP) and employs 37 percent of the national labor force, according to the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization. However, a fast-growing population, climate change and poor resource management have greatly impacted Pakistan’s crops in recent years, prompting officials to ponder alternative ways to enhance production.

Pakistan also decided in June last year to send nearly 1,000 graduates to China to train in methods and techniques to enhance Pakistani agricultural production. Of them, around 300 Pakistani graduates this month completed training in water-saving irrigation, seed production, animal husbandry, agriculture production and prevention of post-harvest losses in China’s Shaanxi province.

During Tuesday’s meeting with Chinese delegates, Hussain proposed signing multiple memorandums of understanding (MoUs) focusing on joint research in areas such as biotechnology, crop improvement, pest control and sustainable agricultural practices, according to the national food security ministry.

He also underscored the importance of establishing long-term frameworks for the exchange of scientists, technical training, and capacity-building initiatives to strengthen Pakistan’s agricultural institutions.

“Hussain noted that this partnership must go beyond investment and move toward structured collaboration in research and development,” the ministry said.

“The Chinese delegation appreciated the Minister’s strategic vision and assured full support from their government and private sector to contribute to Pakistan’s agricultural transformation… The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to elevate the Pakistan-China partnership in agriculture to a new level, ensuring tangible outcomes in the coming months through structured planning and implementation.”