AI-Powered Agri-Trade Authority Set to Launch in Pakistan
Pakistan’s new National Agri-Trade and Food Safety Authority (NAFSA) is expected to become operational in the coming months, with the government reviewing its readiness as the authority prepares to launch an AI-powered digital platform aimed at modernizing agricultural imports and exports.
Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Ahad Cheema chaired a meeting to review NAFSA’s operational preparedness, including its digital infrastructure, governance framework and recruitment process.
Officials informed the minister that the authority will operate as a single-window platform for agricultural importers and exporters, replacing the existing manual processes with a technology-driven system designed to speed up approvals, improve transparency and strengthen food safety oversight.
As part of the next phase, NAFSA will launch an AI-powered chatbot-enabled website, a dedicated helpline and official social media platforms to facilitate traders and other stakeholders.
The authority will also introduce a digital inspection workflow under which inspectors will examine consignments without direct interaction with importers or clearing agents, while third-party audits will verify inspection reports to reduce discretion and improve accountability.
The meeting was also informed that recruitment is underway through an independent selection process, with market-based salaries aimed at attracting professionals from the private sector.
Newly recruited officers are currently receiving specialised training at the Customs Academy in Karachi under national and international experts.
Officials said NAFSA is currently headed by an acting Director General, while the recruitment process for a permanent chief executive from the private sector is in progress. Employees from the Department of Plant Protection (DPP) will only provide limited transitional support during the authority’s initial operational phase.
Ahad Cheema directed officials to ensure integrity, professionalism and strict adherence to regulations from the first day of operations. He also instructed the authority to launch awareness campaigns so importers, exporters and other stakeholders are fully informed about the new regulatory framework.
