Pakistan one of the top milk producer in the world: PEW
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Supporting dairy sector will help millions
The Pakistan Economy Watch (PEW) on Sunday said the dairy sector has great potential which can be exploited with the support of the government.
With milk production of 56 crore tonnes, Pakistan is the fifth largest producer of milk in the world while it is among top three producers in the Asia-Pacific region, it said.
Milk production can be increased from seven to eight times with little efforts which will boost exports and reduce its price providing relief to masses, said Dr. Murtaza Mughal, President PEW.
Production of milk per animal is seven to eight times lower than the developed nation which can be improved by using modern methods, he added.
He said that latest techniques and can boost milk production making Pakistan a leading producer and exporter of milk which will not only reduce the price of milk and beef substantially but also help the country to earn foreign exchange.
It will also have a positive impact on export of beef and mutton, boost leather industry and provide help to the infant halal industry, he added.
Dr. Murtaza Mughal said that dairy and livestock is an important subsector of agriculture which continues to register growth of 3 to 4 percent per annum despite lack of support.
This sector has 63 million animals, it covers 12 percent of the GDP while 35 million people make their living through it by producing 50 billion litres of milk costing Rs 180 billion.
The country is exporting live animals to many countries while beef and mutton are being exported to Saudi Arabia, UAE, Kuwait, Oman, Afghanistan, Vietnam and other countries while the gap between demand and supply is increasing which is contributing to price hike. Supporting dairy sector will help tens of millions of people.
