KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister (CM) Syed Murad Ali Shah has urged the private sector to invest in the livestock and fisheries sectors to achieve substantial returns and enhance the national economy.

Numerous opportunities in agriculture, livestock and fisheries possessed immense potential for growth and innovation, said the CM after inaugurating the three-day Livestock Expo-2025 here at Expo Centre on Friday.

The show is being organised by the livestock & fisheries department in collaboration with the departments of agriculture, sports & youth affairs and that of culture, tourism & antiquities besides the KMC and the commissioner of Karachi.

Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, the CM emphasised the significance of the livestock sector in boosting the provinces economy and enhancing food security.

He stressed the necessity of increasing exports to fortify the country’s foreign exchange reserves.

He announced initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure, enhancing animal health, increasing yields and introducing innovative farming methods. He noted that his governments vision focused on empowering rural communities, bolstering farmers’ livelihoods and driving sustainable growth in the agriculture and livestock sectors.

The CM acknowledged that despite its potential, the sectors continued to face challenges such as limited resources, outdated practices and inadequate access to modern technology. However, the Sindh government, in collaboration with international banks, businesses, and institutions, was committed to addressing those challenges, he added.

Previously, vaccines were imported, but now “we have commenced local production, which is a significant achievement”, he remarked.

Murad Ali Shah also addressed the current economic challenges, urging collective efforts to overcome them. “If we unite, we can surmount the issues posed by the IMF programmes. Our collective goal must be the progress of Pakistan,” he added.

The event was attended by Minister for Livestock & Fisheries Mohammad Ali Malkani (the host), Minister of Culture Zulfiqar Shah, Livestock Secretary Kazim Jatoi, provincial ministers from the Balochistan government, MPAs, diplomats, director generals of various departments and other officials.

Published in Dawn, January 18th, 2025