ISLAMABAD, Dec 06 (NNI): The China Machinery Engineering Corporation (CMEC) announced that the first shipment of 50 tons of sesame, cultivated through contract farming, is set to be delivered to China this month.
The testing farm initiated earlier this year by CMEC aims to bolster innovative farming practices and strengthen agricultural cooperation between Pakistan and China.
Xi Jianlong, the project manager of contract farming at CMEC Pakistan, stated, “The initial 50-ton cargo, sourced entirely from our contract farming initiatives, is expected to reach China by December 25th,” as reported by the local media.
He further elaborated, saying, “We plan to expand our sesame contract farming to 30,000 acres in Pakistan next season, with an anticipated export of 10,000 tons to China. Our company manages contract-based farms in Sindh and Punjab, which include crops like dry red chilli and sorghum.”
“Our foray into contract farming began with dry red chilli, with farms situated in Multan, Khanewal, Lodhran, and Muzaffargarh. Following sesame, our third project focuses on contract farming of sorghum, with farms located in Lahore, Okara, and Khanewal,” added Xi.
Xi Jianlong highlighted the company’s intentions to export red chilli and sorghum to China, emphasising, “We are the first Chinese company to implement contract farming in Pakistan, benefiting local farmers. The introduction of modern technology is expected to enhance Pakistan’s annual yield and trading volume, providing a significant boost to exports.”
In August, CMEC signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) aimed at revolutionising sustainable food systems, creating a link between small farmers and end-to-end value chains for increased efficiency and food security.
Contract farming in Pakistan offers numerous benefits to local farmers, including improved access to better inputs and technology, reduced market risks, enhanced income stability, and the promotion of agricultural modernization. This method has gained traction in various sectors such as cotton, fruits, vegetables, and dairy, aiming to enhance productivity, elevate quality standards, and facilitate market access for smallholder farmers. NNI
