MDF, which has partnered with 46 Pakistani businesses since 2013, is the Australian Government’s private sector development program in Pakistan.
Australia’s High Commissioner, Margaret Adamson, welcomed the joint investment, which will expand Pakistan’s formal milk procurement network and increase incomes for smallholders.
Benefits of extension service
Extending the commercial network for milk procurement will help to address Pakistan’s annual milk supply-demand gap of 3.5bn liters.
The milk collection centers will also deliver information to farmers on best practices in milking, vaccination and animal husbandry.
“Australia is pleased to be working with Pakistan’s progressive private sector to drive economic growth and assist Pakistan’s efforts to alleviate poverty,” Adamson said.
“By connecting smallholders with commercial markets, the milk collection centers will attract better quality milk and provide a better rate for farmers for their product.”
Aamir Khwas, chief operating officer of Fauji Foods, said farmers can significantly benefit from an extension service that will educate them about the best husbandry practices and benefits of pro-active vaccination and de-worming.