ISLAMABAD: Senator Aimal Wali Khan made alarming claims about food safety during a Senate Standing Committee meeting on National Food Security. The Awami National Party (ANP) senator alleged that plastic rice and meat from donkeys, dogs, and frogs were being sold in Pakistan. He also cited a report stating that only 22% of milk sold in the country is genuine, with the remaining 78% being chemically produced.
The meeting, chaired by Senator Syed Masroor Hassan, aimed to address issues in basmati rice exports to the European Union (EU). The senator criticized food quality regulations and urged for strict checks. In response, the committee formed a sub-committee to draft a comprehensive food safety policy.
Rice Exports to EU Face Objections
Officials from the Ministry of National Food Security & Research (MNFS&R) revealed that 107 rice consignments to the EU faced objections, despite 10,300 shipments exported until 2024. The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) registered 17 FIRs related to mismanagement in rice exports. Eleven suspects are in custody, while two are absconding, and four are on bail.
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Senator Aimal questioned why fungus develops on rice shipments cleared for export. He criticized the inefficiencies in the export process, calling for better management. Senator Dinesh Kumar also expressed concern over the lack of a comprehensive food safety policy.
Unpaid Cotton Cess Sparks Debate
The committee also discussed the recovery of unpaid cotton cess. Federal Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain reported that Rs3.2 billion in cess has remained unpaid since 2016. The All Pakistan Textile Mills Association (APTMA) claimed it lacked funds to pay the dues.
Monthly cess collections have improved to Rs30 million under committee pressure. However, officials suggested making non-payment of cotton cess a non-bailable offense. APTMA representatives have been summoned to the next meeting to resolve the issue.
The Senate committee emphasized the urgent need for reforms in food safety and agriculture policy to ensure quality standards and accountability.
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