China Machinery Engineering Corporation (CMEC) on January 16 inaugurated the China-Pakistan Innovation Agriculture Cooperation Center at Kasuri Farms in Kasur, Punjab, marking a major milestone in Pakistan—China cooperation in modern and technology-driven agriculture.

The center is designed to promote cutting-edge agricultural research and technology transfer while strengthening collaboration in smart farming, biotechnology, seed development, mechanization and climate-resilient agriculture. It will also focus on capacity building through structured farmer training programmes, knowledge exchange platforms and applied research initiatives, supporting sustainable food systems and rural development across Pakistan.

Speaking to media, Alan Xi of the CMEC Group said the center will encourage joint research publications, technology incubation and create opportunities for students, scientists and entrepreneurs, contributing meaningfully to food security and economic resilience.

"The center will serve as a bridge between academia, industry and farmers, ensuring that innovation reaches the field and translates into real impact," he noted.

Earlier, CMEC Group had also launched chili and sesame contract farming projects in Pakistan, aimed at improving crop productivity, ensuring quality seed supply and introducing modern farming practices. These projects focus on providing farmers with technical guidance, input support and assured market access, helping integrate local producers into regional and global agricultural value chains.

The experience gained from these contract farming initiatives is expected to complement the work of the newly established center by offering practical, field-level insights and scalable models for agribusiness development.