Pakistan can easily triple its milk production by employing simple methods while latest measures can further milk output by 900 per cent. Pakistan has a impressive dairy industry which can be exploited to its real potential, said Economic Councilor Embassy of Netherlands, Ian Van Ranselaar here on Thursday.
He said a developed environment can help revolutionize Pakistan’s dairy industry. “A Dutch cow produces nine times more milk a Pakistani cow or buffalo can produce”, he said and added that some measures are needed to bring per cow production of both friendly countries at par. The Dutch diplomat was talking to Vice President Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) Mirza Abdul Rehman, Chairman Coordination Atif Akram Sheikh and Chairman Media Malik Sohail.
Ian Ranselaar further said that 16 Pakistani major dairy stakeholders are due to leave for Netherlands to know the latest trends and techniques. He said currently balance of trade is in favor of Pakistan and they are working on various projects to boost Pakistan economy. The diplomat said various Pakistani products including rice, textiles, surgical goods, sports hardware, leather products and fruits are of superior quality but local entrepreneurs lag behind in branding which has been identified as a major obstacle.
“Security situation in Pakistan is not as bad as perceived in many countries which is shying away investors. Pakistan should improve its perception”, the diplomat remarked.
The Dutch diplomats were all praise for the tireless efforts of Pakistan Commercial Councillor in Hague. On the occasion, Mirza Abdul Rehman said with 180 million population, Pakistan has great potential for investment, vast space for business activities and there is no issue of law and order.
Atif Akram Sheikh said both the countries have good political ties which should supplement our trade relations. Pakistan has three times the animals that Germany has, but yields are one-fifth of Germany’s and one-third of New Zealand, representing a significant loss, he added. Business community is satisfied with the efforts of the Ambassador Hugo Gajus Scheltema, said Sheikh, adding that issuance of visa should be made easier.
Malik Sohail said being the fourth largest producer of milk in the world, Pakistan produces 35 billion liters of milk from around five million animals which is worth Rs.177 billion.
“Our dairy sector is growing by five per cent per annum while demand is increasing by fifteen per cent which calls for urgent measures to address issues effecting production”, he underlined.