ISLAMABAD, March 18 (ABC): The Ministry of National Food Security and Research plans a Rs490 million project to strengthen food safety monitoring in Pakistan. As a result, it will improve compliance with international trade standards and support exports of livestock products.
The project aims to enhance the capacity of the National Veterinary Laboratory (NVL) for antimicrobial residue analysis. Therefore, it will help meet both national and international standards. It will also support the export of livestock and livestock-derived products.
The project, titled “National Agri Food Laboratory Standards, Accreditation and Reference Network,” will run for three years from July 2026 to June 2029. It will be implemented by the National Veterinary Laboratory, Islamabad.
According to documents available with Wealth Pakistan, the project focuses on improving laboratory standards for livestock and agri-food safety. It targets antimicrobial residue monitoring, public health protection, regulatory effectiveness, and compliance with global food safety standards.
Strengthening laboratory capacity
The initiative will strengthen laboratory capacity and veterinary diagnostic systems. As a result, it will support value chain modernisation and improve the competitiveness of Pakistan’s livestock products in global markets.
In addition, the project will establish a National Antimicrobial Drug Residue Monitoring Plan. This plan will cover livestock and livestock-derived products across the country.
Training and accreditation measures
The project also includes training and certification of laboratory personnel. These efforts will improve their technical and regulatory skills. Moreover, the laboratory will work toward ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation to meet international quality standards.
Alignment with national priorities
The initiative aligns with the 5Es Framework, the 13th Five-Year Plan, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the National Agriculture Innovation Growth Programme (NAIGP).
Furthermore, it will support regulatory digitalisation under the E-Pakistan initiative. It will also strengthen export certification systems by improving food safety compliance and veterinary diagnostic standards.
Expected impact on trade and safety
The project is expected to produce reliable and timely residue testing reports. These reports will support regulatory oversight and facilitate trade in livestock and livestock-derived products.
Overall, the initiative will enhance food safety monitoring, strengthen institutional capacity, and improve Pakistan’s position in international livestock markets.