CPEC coal fertiliser plant secures $1.12bn investment

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan China Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry has welcomed the establishment of Pakistan’s first coal-based fertiliser plant under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, calling the $1.12 billion investment a major step for agriculture, food security, employment and industrial growth, according to a statement issued on Thursday.

PCJCCI President Nazir Hussain said the use of local coal for fertiliser production would help Pakistan cut reliance on imported fertiliser inputs, provide farmers with a steadier supply and support lower production costs in the farm sector.

He said the project was a strategic investment in the country’s agricultural future and added that affordable, regular fertiliser availability would help raise crop output, strengthen food security and improve the competitiveness of Pakistan’s agricultural exports.

"This is not merely an industrial project; it is a strategic investment in Pakistan's agricultural future. Affordable and consistent fertiliser availability will directly support higher crop yields, strengthen food security and improve the competitiveness of Pakistan's agricultural exports," he added.

Senior Vice President Brig Mansoor Saeed Sheikh said China’s experience in agricultural modernisation offered important lessons for Pakistan. He said Pakistan had substantial untapped potential across different agro-climatic zones and added that dryland farming could be expanded through advanced irrigation methods and modern cultivation practices.