Pakistan Establishes NEFSA: A Major Step Toward Agri-Trade and Food Safety Reform
Introduction
In a significant development for Pakistan’s agricultural sector, the government has established the National Agri-Trade and Food Safety Authority (NEFSA). This new body has been formed by merging two important departments under the Ministry of National Food Security and Research — the Plant Protection Department (DPP) and the Animal Quarantine Department (AQD).
The main aim of NEFSA is to modernize Pakistan’s agri-trade framework, ensuring that it meets international food safety and plant protection standards, boosting exports, and ensuring food security.
Why Was NEFSA Formed?
The creation of NEFSA addresses the need for a unified, scientific, and data-driven regulatory authority. It reflects the government’s vision to:
- Enhance compliance with Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) measures
- Promote high-quality agricultural inputs
- Improve food safety and increase exportable surplus
- Replace outdated systems with a modern, tech-based structure
Departments Merged Into NEFSA
- Plant Protection Department (DPP):
- Set up under the International Plant Protection Convention (IPPC)
- Focused on pest control, crop safety, and import/export inspections
- Animal Quarantine Department (AQD):
- Worked to prevent foreign animal diseases from entering Pakistan
- Faced long-term staff shortages and operational limitations
By merging these departments, the government aims to create a more streamlined and efficient regulatory body.
Key Benefits of NEFSA
- ✅ Alignment with global standards (especially SPS requirements)
- ✅ Reduction in harmful chemical usage (e.g., Methyl Bromide)
- ✅ Cost savings for importers and exporters
- ✅ Environmental sustainability
- ✅ Improved laboratory testing and infrastructure
- ✅ Transparent regulatory practices
Major Reforms Under NEFSA
🌿 Import Regulation Overhaul
- Scientific review of chemical usage
- Reduced dependency on Methyl Bromide (MB) — a toxic fumigant
- Savings of Rs. 30,000–40,000 per container for commodities like cotton, pulses, and grains
🧪 Upgraded Testing Facilities
- Investment in modern lab equipment
- Faster, more reliable inspection and certification processes
🚫 Crackdown on Corruption
- Discovery of a company illegally importing MB
- License suspended after verification
- 4 suspicious shipments worth $1 million stopped at port
📋 Internal Audits and Transparency
- Strict internal checks under the supervision of the Federal Minister
- Introduction of a zero-tolerance policy for misconduct
Challenges Still Ahead
While DPP performed relatively well, AQD suffered due to lack of staff and resources. One area of uncertainty is:
🐜 Will Locust Control Still Be Part of NEFSA?
This responsibility previously fell under DPP, and it’s yet to be confirmed whether NEFSA will manage it going forward.
Federal Minister’s Statement
Rana Tanveer Hussain, Federal Minister for National Food Security, said:
“This is a major reform to align Pakistan’s agri and quarantine systems with global benchmarks. We will not tolerate violations of law or compromises on national interest.”
FAQs About NEFSA
❓ What does NEFSA stand for?
National Agri-Trade and Food Safety Authority.
❓ Why was NEFSA created?
To unify and modernize the regulatory system for agricultural imports and exports, ensuring global compliance
❓ What are SPS measures?
These are Sanitary and Phytosanitary standards set by international bodies to protect human, animal, and plant life.
❓ What’s the impact of reducing Methyl Bromide use?
It cuts down health risks, saves money, and protects the environment.
❓ How does NEFSA help exporters?
By speeding up inspections, ensuring quality compliance, and making Pakistani products more competitive internationally.
Conclusion
The launch of NEFSA is a major reform initiative that reflects Pakistan’s commitment to modern, transparent, and globally-aligned agricultural practices. By merging outdated departments and replacing old systems with technology-backed regulation, the government is ensuring a safer, greener, and more export-competitive future for Pakistani agriculture.
This bold step is not just about institutional change — it’s about building trust with international markets, protecting public health, and promoting sustainability.
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