Pakistan has launched its first-ever public-private genomics joint venture, a major step toward building the country’s scientific and technological capacity. The initiative aims to boost agricultural innovation, strengthen national research institutions and support healthcare through locally developed genomic research and diagnostics.
The venture is a collaboration between the National Institute for Genomics and Advanced Biotechnology (NIGAB), PARC–Agro Tech Company (PATCO) under the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC), and Blazon Diagnostics. The inauguration ceremony took place at NIGAB, NARC, Islamabad, attended by senior national and international experts.
Those present included Dr. Syed Murtaza Hassan Andrabi, Chairman PARC; Lt. Gen. (R) Abdul Qayyum, Chairman Pak-China Business Forum; Dr. Khalid Mehmood, DG NARC; Brig. Ali Raza, Commandant SIBGE; Dr. Shaukat Ali, Director NIGAB; Dr. Taj Naseeb Khan, CEO PATCO; and a delegation of Chinese researchers supporting the project.
Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain said the joint venture marks a turning point in Pakistan’s efforts to modernize research and achieve food security.
“This initiative is a testament to our commitment to transforming Pakistan’s scientific landscape,” the minister said. “By developing indigenous genomic capabilities, we are empowering researchers, farmers and healthcare professionals with cutting-edge tools. This will help us become self-reliant in advanced research and diagnostics while reducing dependence on foreign genomic services.”
The venture will provide local DNA sequencing services for agricultural research and clinical diagnostics, an area where Pakistan has long relied on costly foreign laboratories. Officials say this will save foreign exchange, accelerate scientific progress and enable researchers to conduct advanced studies within the country.
The initiative aligns with the government’s vision, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, to use advanced technologies to strengthen food security and improve public welfare.
Rana Tanveer Hussain said the project will enhance Pakistan’s national research capacity, promote the commercialization of genomic technologies and open new paths for biotechnology-driven development. By enabling scientists to conduct cutting-edge research domestically, Pakistan is positioning itself as a future leader in regional biotechnology and genomics.
PARC Chairman Dr. Syed Murtaza Hassan Andrabi lauded the collaboration, calling it a foundation for a new era in Pakistan’s biotechnology sector. He said the effort would raise agricultural productivity, support public health and help modernize key research institutions.
Officials say the launch marks a decisive move toward building a self-sufficient, innovation-driven biotechnology ecosystem. With indigenous genomic services now available, Pakistan is better equipped to meet future scientific challenges and contribute to global research with homegrown solutions.
