U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission (DCM) Andrew Schofer highlighted U.S. efforts to promote economic growth in Pakistan and the role of U.S. business in Pakistan’s agriculture sector during his first visit to South Punjab on July 29-31. 

“Pakistani mangoes are renowned worldwide, and this sector is crucial to the country’s economy and culture. The United States has supported the mango industry by providing advanced graders for processing facilities across Punjab and Sindh,” said DCM Schofer, who visited the Luftabad mango farm on July 31.  “This support has helped improve technology, reduce labour costs, speed up shipment processes, meet international quality and hygiene standards, and expand exports to international markets.”   

A 2015-19 USAID project improved the international and national competitiveness of Pakistan’s commercial agriculture and livestock sectors in four product lines: meat, high-value and off-season vegetables, mangoes, and citrus fruits.  USAID’s support helped attract investment worth $80 million in the private sector, creating more than 12,000 full-time jobs.    

DCM Schofer also toured the Corteva Agriscience Research facility.  He emphasized the close cooperation through the U.S.-Pakistan “Green Alliance” Framework to expand climate-smart agriculture, clean energy, and effective water management.  Across Pakistan, dozens of U.S. companies employ approximately 120,000 Pakistanis and provide critical research and development capabilities.