Ahmed Khan Malik

The Sindh government plans to develop an agro-based industry in Sukkur – the biggest city in the southeastern province of Pakistan, reports WealthPK.

The initiative appears feasible as the district and its surrounding areas serve as major hubs for the production of key crops and fruits. “Sukkur is the main city in the upper part of the province. It is located near South Punjab and is well-connected to districts that produce a variety of crops and fruits,” said Riaz Jamali, Additional Director of the Industrial Planning Cell in the Planning Department, in an interview with WealthPK. He explained that while the idea of developing an agro-based industry was conceived long ago, no progress had been made. However, a detailed plan has now been formulated to bring the vision to fruition.

Jamali highlighted Sukkur's diverse agricultural landscape, which makes significant contributions to the production of cash crops, vegetables, and fruits. The region is known for producing cotton, sugarcane, wheat, and rice, alongside orchards featuring strawberries and dates. This diversity underscores its potential as a hub for agro-based industry. Cotton production is a consistent feature in Sukkur, while sugarcane cultivation often surpasses sowing targets.

The region also supports the cultivation of maize, mustard, tobacco, sesame, jawar, and gram. Additionally, Sukkur accounts for 14.2 percent of the province’s total fish production, Jamali noted. He added that the development of the agro-based industry would be incentivized through measures such as financial support and tax relief to attract investors. Sajid Shah, a prominent grower in Sukkur, emphasized the untapped potential for value addition in farm produce. Extending the shelf life of fruits and minimizing wastage could unlock significant opportunities, he said.

“Geographically, we have a clear edge for establishing an agro-based industry.” Shah also pointed out that Sukkur hosts the largest market for fresh and dried dates, but the absence of value addition remains a missed opportunity. “Being adjacent to Khairpur, Sukkur is ideally positioned to support an agro-based industry,” he added. He urged prioritizing the development of this industry to promote industrialization, which would undoubtedly generate numerous job opportunities.

Credit: INP-WealthPk