Unlocking Pakistan’s Potential

As I conclude my tenure in Pakistan, reflecting on my experiences and partnerships, I remain profoundly optimistic about the vast economic potential that lies ahead for this vibrant nation. Prominent global institutions, including Goldman Sachs, forecast that Pakistan’s economy could expand exponentially, becoming a robust $2–3 trillion economy within the next two decades. Central to realizing this vision is a steadfast commitment to science and technology, particularly in agriculture—Pakistan’s most vital economic sector.

Pakistan’s economic potential from a global perspective is immense. With a rapidly growing population exceeding 250 million, abundant human capital, fertile lands, and strategic geographic diversity, Pakistan stands poised to become a major economic powerhouse in South Asia and beyond. Goldman Sachs’ recent analysis emphasizes Pakistan as an emerging giant economy, predicting its GDP could surpass the $2 trillion mark by 2040, provided it strategically harnesses its demographic dividend through targeted investments, policy reforms, and technological advancements.

Yet, achieving these promising future hinges significantly on innovation-led growth. At the heart of such prosperity are advancements in science and technology, particularly those capable of revolutionizing agriculture—an essential pillar of Pakistan’s economy. Agriculture currently contributes approximately 23% to Pakistan’s GDP and employs nearly 40% of its workforce, making it a critical engine of economic activity and the backbone of rural livelihoods. However, traditional farming methods, fragmented supply chains, and limited adoption of modern technologies continue to restrict productivity, highlighting the pressing need for transformation.

Science and technology, when effectively integrated into agriculture, act as powerful catalysts of sustainable development. Throughout my tenure as Director of the Korea Partnership for Innovation of Agriculture (KOPIA) Pakistan Center—a specialized international cooperation initiative under Korea’s Rural Development Administration—I have witnessed firsthand how targeted technological interventions can significantly enhance agricultural productivity, food security, and rural incomes. By collaborating closely with the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) and the National Agricultural Research Centre (NARC), KOPIA has facilitated substantial technology transfer, translating Korean agricultural innovations into impactful local solutions.

The projects initiated under KOPIA’s umbrella, including the establishment of advanced aeroponics facilities for seed potato multiplication, have delivered transformative outcomes. Aeroponics—a soilless plant cultivation method—has exponentially increased potato yields, substantially reduced reliance on imported seed potatoes, and markedly improved seed quality. The recently inaugurated Aeroponics Complex at NARC stands as a testament to the profound potential of science-based agricultural innovation. Such initiatives not only enhance productivity but also create avenues for rural prosperity and economic stability, underscoring the transformative power of international technology cooperation.

Likewise, KOPIA’s initiatives have encompassed livestock management enhancements and fodder crop improvements, demonstrating how diverse technological solutions can collectively uplift agricultural value chains. By introducing scientifically proven practices, from tissue culture to precision agriculture, these collaborations have directly boosted farm productivity, rural livelihoods, and overall economic resilience.

Economic development rooted in science and technology is not merely aspirational; it has historical precedent. Nations that strategically invested in science and technology have consistently emerged as global economic leaders, with South Korea’s own trajectory—from poverty to prosperity through innovation-driven growth—serving as an inspiring model. Pakistan, by emulating such a path, stands to replicate similar successes, achieving sustained, inclusive, and innovation-led economic growth.

For technology-driven growth to flourish sustainably, Pakistan must prioritize continuous research, encourage entrepreneurship, foster international collaborations, and integrate digital innovations into agricultural practices. A science-centric ecosystem ensures ongoing innovation, aligns economic advancement with environmental sustainability, and secures prosperity for generations.

Looking ahead, collaboration remains the key to unlocking Pakistan’s immense potential. The ongoing partnership between Pakistan and Korea through KOPIA exemplifies how international cooperation can generate profound economic outcomes. While economic forecasts affirm Pakistan’s trajectory toward becoming a major global economy, turning these predictions into realities requires unwavering commitment to scientific research, technological adoption, and dynamic global partnerships.

As I bid farewell to Pakistan, I remain firmly convinced that centering economic development on science and technology—especially in agriculture—positions this nation for remarkable achievements. Through persistent innovation, resilience, and international collaboration, Pakistan can undoubtedly realize its extraordinary economic potential, transforming itself into a global economic leader over the next two decades.

Let us collectively envision, and together strive toward, a prosperous future where Pakistan proudly stands as a $3 trillion economy, driven by science, innovation, and partnership.

Dr. Cho Gyoungrae
The writer is the Director of the KOPIA Pakistan Center, dedicated to advancing agriculture through international science and technology cooperation.