US sees strong potential for agricultural technology partnership with Pakistan

The United States has underscored the potential for expanding agricultural technology cooperation with Pakistan, saying that greater adoption of American innovation could modernise the country’s farming sector while creating new opportunities for bilateral trade and investment.

The United States has underscored the potential for expanding agricultural technology cooperation with Pakistan, saying that greater adoption of American innovation could modernise the country’s farming sector while creating new opportunities for bilateral trade and investment.

The remarks were made by US Chargé d’Affaires Natalie A. Baker during a Direct Line webinar organised by the Business Council for International Understanding (BCIU) in collaboration with the US Embassy in Islamabad, the US Department of Commerce, and the Government of Pakistan. The virtual event brought together American companies, Pakistani government officials, investors, and representatives from the agriculture industry to discuss future collaboration.

Speaking at the webinar, Baker described agriculture as one of Pakistan’s most important economic sectors, contributing nearly one-quarter of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) and supporting millions of livelihoods. She said Pakistan’s efforts to modernise agriculture present significant opportunities for American businesses to introduce advanced technologies and expertise.

According to Baker, US companies can contribute in key areas such as precision agriculture, advanced irrigation systems, digital farm management, cold chain logistics, and modern food processing technologies. She noted that these innovations could help improve agricultural productivity, reduce resource wastage, and strengthen food security while creating commercial opportunities for both countries.

The US diplomat also highlighted the growing trade relationship between the two countries, revealing that US exports to Pakistan exceeded $1.5 billion in agricultural and related goods during 2025. She described the webinar as part of the US Mission’s broader strategy to promote stronger economic cooperation and expand commercial ties with Pakistan.

During the discussions, Pakistani officials outlined regulatory reforms and policy initiatives designed to facilitate greater imports of American agricultural products, including soybeans, cotton, and high-quality planting seeds. They also encouraged increased US investment in farm mechanisation, biotechnology, seed development, controlled-atmosphere storage, and food processing industries.

Baker stressed that American investment offers benefits beyond financial capital by promoting technology transfer, workforce training, and long-term business partnerships. She said such collaboration can strengthen local expertise and contribute to sustainable economic growth in Pakistan’s agriculture sector.

The webinar also served as a preview of the US Department of Commerce’s Certified Agricultural Technologies Trade Mission to Pakistan, scheduled for October 26–30. Baker invited American companies to explore investment opportunities in Pakistan’s agricultural technology and food processing sectors, reaffirming that supporting US businesses seeking to invest in Pakistan remains a key priority for the embassy.