‘Prioritise agri, tech, energy fields’

Fostering the agriculture, technology, and energy sectors must be a priority, as these three industries will dominate global markets and shape the future of business. Pakistan, with its immense potential, must seize opportunities by developing pragmatic strategies without delay, energy scientists and economic experts said.

Speaking to , they said that economic development is impossible without promoting these three vital sectors. Agriculture plays a crucial role in human survival, strengthening food security—an issue far more critical than border security. It also generates employment in rural areas, preventing mass migration to urban centres.

Technology enhances communication, efficiency, innovation, connectivity, and overall quality of life while driving advancements across all industries. Meanwhile, the energy sector powers homes, offices, industries, and transportation, reducing inefficiencies and improving productivity.

To address economic and labour challenges through technological advancements, DHA Suffa University Karachi’s Dean of the Faculty of Computing and Information Technology, Professor Dr S Zafar Nasir, stated that Pakistan can leapfrog into the global technological landscape by leveraging its young workforce. This can be achieved through internet-based connectivity and knowledge-sharing with professionals and experts from universities worldwide.

He highlighted that Artificial Intelligence (AI) adoption could transform Pakistan’s economy, provided there are AI-focused education and training programmes. Encouraging AI startups through funding, incubation, and mentorship opportunities could further accelerate progress.

“Our agriculture sector has been a major source of foreign exchange for some time. By utilising data analytics techniques, we can significantly enhance per-acre yields through soil analysis while conserving precious water reserves in delta regions,” Nasir explained. “Additionally, AI-based solutions can improve traffic management and energy efficiency.”

He also underscored the importance of incentivising Electric Vehicle (EV) adoption by offering tax breaks and subsidies while investing in EV infrastructure. Encouraging ride-hailing services to transition to EVs and attracting foreign investment in local EV production would further boost the sector.

Other innovative ideas include prioritising renewable energy by investing in solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, thereby reducing dependence on fossil fuels. Additionally, fintech and digital payment systems, including online banking, should be promoted alongside local e-commerce platforms and digital marketplaces. “Informed decision-making is the key to unlocking potential markets and capitalising on market dynamics,” he added.

Nasir urged the government to support and finance startups and entrepreneurs through funding, mentorship, and incubation programmes.

“By adopting dynamic strategies, Pakistan can harness technological trends to drive economic growth, improve living standards, and emerge as a significant global player,” he said.

Energy scientist Dr Adeel Ghayur, Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of Allied Biorefinery, Australia, pointed out that reliable and affordable energy is crucial for attracting foreign investment, boosting industrial output, and fostering technological advancements. A stable energy sector can help resolve Pakistan’s chronic power shortages, which frequently disrupt economic activity and daily life.

He highlighted the job creation potential of the energy sector across industries such as construction, maintenance, manufacturing, services, and research & development (R&D).

“In its transition towards energy security and renewable energy sources, Pakistan should prioritise the development of biofuels such as sustainable aviation fuel, green diesel, and bio-dimethyl ether (a viable LPG replacement),” Dr Ghayur suggested. “Additionally, the country should explore distributed energy, which involves generating electricity from decentralised sources closer to the point of use, reducing transmission losses and costs.”

He also noted that AI and data centres—which require substantial energy—are increasingly prioritising renewable sources. Pakistan has a prime opportunity to capitalise on this demand by promoting green energy, positioning itself as a key player in the AI sector while simultaneously strengthening its renewable energy industry.

Veteran agriculturalist Nabi Bux Sathio urged the government to end the exploitation of farmers by establishing a transparent pricing mechanism to ensure stability and a 15-20% profit margin beyond production costs for every crop.

“Local growers are being deprived of fair compensation for their produce. Agriculture is the only sector that guarantees 100% food security,” Sathio stated. “If farmers are assured they will recover their costs and earn reasonable profits, they will naturally work toward increasing crop yields. Higher yields will not only benefit the country’s food supply but also boost exports.”

He warned that food insecurity would cause people to prioritise purchasing essential commodities over other expenses, leading to panic buying and economic disruption.

“Investing in agricultural R&D is no longer an option—it is a necessity,” he asserted.

Sathio stressed that developed countries are achieving higher crop yields by focusing on safe and sustainable food production, ensuring pest-free, disease-free, and 100% hygienic food for their populations. Pakistan must follow suit to secure its agricultural future.