ISLAMABAD: China and Pakistan are expanding cooperation in livestock technology and agricultural research, with new agreements signed during a recent Chinese delegation’s visit to Pakistan, Radio Pakistan reported on Thursday, as both sides seek to deepen economic collaboration under the second phase of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

The collaboration follows a visit by Jinan Animal Husbandry Industry Craftsman College to Pakistan in January during the 2026 China-Pakistan Agriculture Investment Conference, where multiple cooperation documents were signed.

CPEC, launched in 2015 as part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative, initially focused on large-scale infrastructure projects including highways, energy plants and the development of Gwadar port. In recent years, the corridor has entered what officials describe as “CPEC 2.0,” aimed at shifting toward industrial cooperation, agriculture modernization, technology transfer and private-sector partnerships.

Agriculture and livestock are central to Pakistan’s rural economy, employing millions and contributing significantly to agricultural output. Expanding technical cooperation in breeding, veterinary sciences and value-added production is seen as part of broader efforts to diversify bilateral economic ties beyond infrastructure.

“The collaboration injects new impetus into bilateral livestock industry development, aligning with the advancement of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) 2.0,” Radio Pakistan reported on a visit by Jinan Animal Husbandry Industry Craftsman College to Pakistan from Jan. 19-24.

During the visit, two key cooperation documents were signed. A Framework Agreement on Industrial and Technological Cooperation and Talent Training was concluded with the Pak-China Joint Chamber of Commerce & Industry (PCJCCI) to establish a China-Pakistan Animal Husbandry and Veterinary Industry Technology Cooperation Center. The center is expected to focus on technological research and development, standard-setting and customized training programs.

In addition, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed with GO DAIRY Private Limited covering the transfer of sheep in vitro fertilization technology and dairy cow breeding techniques, alongside technical guidance to address production bottlenecks.

Radio Pakistan reported that consensus was also reached with the University of Veterinary & Animal Sciences (UVAS) on curriculum collaboration and the development of a joint training base.

The report added that Chinese and Pakistani experts would focus on three areas of cooperation — Himalayan pink salt application, sheep in vitro fertilization and dairy cow breeding — and plan to establish a joint laboratory to support technology localization.