Maize is the third most important food grain crop in Pakistan, with an annual production of approximately 10.634 million tonnes, cultivated over an area of 1.72 million hectares.
Maize is the third most important food grain crop in Pakistan, with an annual production of approximately 10.634 million tonnes, cultivated over an area of 1.72 million hectares.
The country's maize exports have experienced a substantial surge, reaching $421 million during the July–June 2023–2024 period, compared to $190 million in the same timeframe the previous year. This growth is attributed to a bumper harvest and decreased domestic poultry feed demand, resulting in a significant exportable surplus at competitive prices. Key export destinations include Vietnam with a share of 50 per cent ($174 million), Malaysia with a share of 18.3 per cent ($63 million), and Sri Lanka with a share of 12.2 per cent ($42 million).
Besides its increasing popularity as a substitute grain, maize also plays a critical role in meeting global food, feed, and industrial demands, with its market witnessing steady growth worldwide. The demand for maize has increased as a versatile ingredient in various food products, allowing maize producers to boost their agricultural produce and increase their market share. Valued at $143.18 billion in 2024, the global maize market is projected to reach $190.29 billion by 2031, growing at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 3.6 per cent.
North America currently dominates while Asia-Pacific is expected to experience the fastest growth due to rising population, urbanisation and economic development. Increasing demand for maize food, animal feed, and industrial applications is fueled by the expanding livestock sector, rising disposable incomes, and a growing preference for processed foods.
Pakistan’s maize production is around 10-11 million metric tons annually, with its recent advancements in maize production and export growth, the country has the potential to become a key player in this expanding market. But it does face challenges, comprising post-harvest losses, few storage facilities, an underdeveloped supply chain and ignorant farmers. Pakistan’s vulnerability to climate change is impacting all the factors mentioned above.
To thrive in the competitive regional markets the growing global maize demand can be translated into bigger economic gains via educating farmers and creating awareness on how to integrate modern farming techniques, such as precision agriculture and high-yield hybrid seeds.
A good example is HBL Zarai’s Dera, which has come up as an educational and resource hub in selected regions, where agronomy experts give guidance and help the farming community increase production. Mechanisation of farms through rental machines and financial resources through bank kiosks are enabling farmers to step into the modern agricultural realm. They also procured a substantial volume of maize directly from the farmers, bypassing middlemen and eliminating delayed payments to the farmers, ensuring quicker and more efficient financial returns.
Recent global initiatives in agricultural and industrial development offer valuable lessons for Pakistan. Ghana’s ‘One District, One Factory’ plan led to the inauguration of a state-of-the-art maize processing facility in October 2022, equipped with advanced drying and milling technology to enhance agro-processing and economic growth.
Similarly, in May 2022, India’s government introduced measures to boost maize production through various schemes, including a minimum support price (MSP), ensuring financial security for farmers. Meanwhile, in November 2021, China’s Fufeng Group announced a $700 million corn wet milling plant capable of processing 25 million bushels annually, producing key byproducts like monosodium glutamate (MSG), starches, and amino acids for livestock feed. These initiatives demonstrate how strategic investments, policy support, and technological advancements can strengthen food security, industrial output, and rural economies -- offering valuable insights into Pakistan’s agricultural sector.
Pakistan, being an agricultural economy, needs to empower the farmer by providing highly efficient modern infrastructure, including warehousing, integrated technology, and a seamless supply chain. Adherence to international quality and safety standards will enhance the credibility of Pakistani maize in global markets.
A last note would be to leverage technology for market analysis and connect with international buyers to streamline operations and open new avenues for export. Exploring new international markets and strengthening trade relations can diversify export destinations as well.
Adherence to international quality and safety standards will enhance the credibility of Pakistani maize in global markets. Exploring new international markets and strengthening trade relations can diversify export destinations as well
The writer is a communications professional. She can be reached at: hadazaid2021@gmail.com
