ISLAMABAD, Jan 24 (ABC): A Chinese agricultural technology firm and a Pakistani agribusiness company have signed an agreement to improve peanut seeds and build a local supply chain in Pakistan. The deal reflects growing cooperation between Pakistan and China in the agriculture sector.
Officials from Shandong Rainbow Agricultural Technology Co. Ltd and Uqab Corporation (Pvt) Ltd said the partnership will support modern peanut farming and long-term growth.
Agreement details
The two companies aim to modernise peanut cultivation across Pakistan. They plan to improve seed quality and support farmers through better inputs.
They also want to develop local capacity instead of relying on imports. As a result, the project focuses on production inside Pakistan.
Seed development focus
Qian Hong, Overseas Project Coordinator at Shandong Rainbow Agricultural Technology Co. Ltd, said the company will select peanut seeds that suit Pakistan’s soil and irrigation systems.
She explained that farming conditions in Pakistan differ from those in China. Therefore, the company will test and adapt seeds locally before wider use.
In addition, she said the firm may supply seeds, invest in farms, grow peanuts locally, and buy the harvest for export to China.
Field trials and local work
Qian said Shandong Rainbow has already worked with local partners on seed development. The company conducted field trials over the past two years.
She also praised the environment and hospitality in Islamabad. According to her, the visit strengthened the company’s interest in Pakistan.
MoU signed, next phase planned
Dr Atif Majeed, Head of Agri Business at Uqab Corporation (Pvt) Ltd, told Wealth Pakistan that both sides have formally signed a memorandum of understanding.
He said the partnership will bring clear benefits to Pakistan’s agriculture sector. Moreover, he said the companies expect to sign more agreements soon.
Supply chain development
Dr Atif said the partners plan to build a full peanut supply chain in Pakistan. This will include research centres, breeding facilities, processing units, cold storage, and warehouses.
He explained that different peanut varieties serve different uses, especially roasting. As a result, seed quality remains critical.
He added that Shandong Rainbow has developed seeds that reduce rancidity while keeping peanuts crisp. The partners will cross-breed these seeds with local varieties.
Benefits for farmers
Finally, Dr Atif said the project aims to improve seed quality and strengthen local skills. He added that the companies want more farmers to adopt improved seeds as work begins on the ground.