Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has said that long term solution of the country’s economic problems lies in increasing exports.
He was speaking at the Mango Festival, organized by the Ministry of Commerce and Trade Development Authority of Pakistan, in Islamabad here on Monday.
The Prime Minister said the objective of increased exports can be
achieved if we encourage indigenous agriculture sector through
provision of cost effective inputs, declaration of support prices,
exploration of new markets and aggressive marketing for our products.
Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani noted that Pakistan was fifth largest
producer of mango in the world. Punjab has the share of 67% and Sindh
33% in mango production while Multan, Rahimyar Khan and Mirpur Khas are
major production areas.
He said the country exported 30 million dollars worth of mango in
2009-10 and the figure is expected to reach 35 million dollars for
2010-11.
The Prime Minister said though Pakistan mangoes are known for
quality and taste all over the world but we need to work hard to
increase our share in one billion dollar world-wide trade in mangoes.
The Government is taking steps to improve the infrastructure for
production, processing and export of mangoes.
The Prime Minister, on the occasion, visited various stalls and showed keen interest in varieties and qualities of mangoes. SANA