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Ban on Japanese Salt Import Lifted

In a significant development, the government of Pakistan has lifted the ban on the manufacturing and import of monosodium glutamate (MSG), commonly known as Ajinomoto salt. This decision comes after persistent complaints and agitation from the Japanese government and Ajinomoto, which argued that the ban was imposed without any scientific justification. The lifting of the ban marks a pivotal moment in Pakistan-Japan trade relations and opens up new avenues for the food industry.

Background of the Ban

The ban on MSG imports was originally enforced via a Statutory Regulatory Order (SRO) 2660(1)/2018, issued on February 28, 2018, in compliance with the orders of the Supreme Court of Pakistan. This ruling effectively prohibited the import and sale of MSG in Pakistan, citing potential health concerns. However, the Ministry of Commerce was not directly involved in the case and was only informed of the decision through the Punjab chief secretary office for implementation.

Since the imposition of the ban, the Japanese government, along with Ajinomoto, has raised concerns at both bilateral and multilateral forums. Ajinomoto argued that Pakistan was the only country to impose such a ban without scientific evidence supporting the decision. The company’s repeated complaints eventually led to a reconsideration of the ban.

The Japanese Government’s Complaint

Ajinomoto, a global leader in MSG production, has consistently pointed out that no other country has imposed such a ban. The company claimed that the decision to ban MSG was not based on any scientific evidence and was detrimental to its business interests. Furthermore, Ajinomoto had filed a review petition before the Supreme Court of Pakistan in 2020, arguing that the ban was a limitation that lacked a proper discussion of the merits of the case.

The Japanese government also played a crucial role in pushing for the ban’s removal. In a meeting with the Prime Minister of Pakistan in June 2022, a Japanese business delegation raised the issue of MSG imports, urging the government to reconsider the restriction. Following this meeting, the Prime Minister directed relevant authorities to resolve the issue.

Committee Formation and Examination of MSG Safety

In response to these ongoing concerns, the Prime Minister’s Office instructed the Ministry of Commerce to establish a technical-cum-expert committee to examine the health and safety aspects of MSG. This committee was tasked with reviewing scientific data and international regulations regarding the safety of MSG as a food additive.

The expert committee was composed of representatives from various esteemed organizations, including the Pakistan Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (PCSIR), the National Agricultural Research Centre (NARC), the Nuclear Institute for Agriculture and Biology (NIAB), the National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), the Institute of Food and Nutritional Sciences (IFNS), the Ministry of National Food Security and Research (MNFSR), and the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA).

After extensive research, including consultations with the World Health Organization (WHO), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the expert committee concluded that MSG was a safe food additive. The committee also cited the European Union’s regulations, which endorse the use of MSG as a safe ingredient in food products.

The Cabinet’s Decision to Lift the Ban

Based on the committee’s findings and the fresh scientific evidence presented, the Ministry of Commerce proposed to the federal cabinet that the ban on MSG imports be lifted. The recommendation was put forward after considering the potential negative effects on trade and economic relations between Pakistan and Japan, as well as the scientific validation of MSG’s safety.

The federal cabinet, after deliberating on the matter, decided to lift the ban on the manufacturing and import of MSG in Pakistan. Furthermore, it was agreed that a review petition would be filed before the Supreme Court of Pakistan through the Attorney General, seeking a formal resolution of the issue.

Implications for Trade and Bilateral Relations

The lifting of the MSG import ban is expected to positively impact trade relations between Pakistan and Japan. Japan, being one of Pakistan’s key trading partners, had expressed concerns over the economic consequences of the MSG ban. Ajinomoto, a multinational corporation based in Japan, is one of the world’s largest producers of MSG, and the ban had significantly affected its ability to do business in Pakistan.

This decision also reflects Pakistan’s commitment to international trade norms and practices, particularly in terms of adhering to scientific evidence when it comes to food safety regulations. By aligning with international standards, Pakistan aims to bolster its trade ties and provide a more conducive environment for foreign investment.

Future Steps and the Role of the Expert Committee

The expert committee will continue to play an important role in monitoring the safety of MSG and other food additives in Pakistan. Its recommendations will be vital in ensuring that any future regulations regarding food safety are based on solid scientific research and align with international standards.

The Ministry of Commerce has also emphasized the importance of ensuring that the food safety regulations are not only based on international guidelines but also tailored to meet the specific needs and requirements of the Pakistani market. This approach will ensure that consumer safety is prioritized while fostering economic growth through trade and commerce.

FAQs

1. Why was the ban on MSG imposed in the first place?
The ban on MSG was imposed following the Supreme Court’s orders in 2018, based on concerns over the potential health risks of consuming MSG. However, the decision lacked scientific backing and was later challenged by Ajinomoto and the Japanese government.

2. What was the role of the expert committee in lifting the ban?
The expert committee conducted an in-depth review of MSG’s safety, consulting international organizations like the WHO and FDA. The committee concluded that MSG is a safe food additive, which formed the basis for lifting the ban.

3. How has the Japanese government responded to the ban?
The Japanese government, alongside Ajinomoto, raised concerns about the ban at various bilateral and multilateral forums. They argued that Pakistan was the only country to impose such a ban without scientific justification.

4. Will this decision affect the availability of MSG in Pakistan?
Yes, with the ban lifted, MSG will now be legally imported and manufactured in Pakistan, making it available for use in food products across the country.

5. How will this decision impact trade relations between Pakistan and Japan?
The lifting of the MSG ban is expected to improve trade relations between the two countries by removing a significant trade barrier. It is also likely to lead to increased business opportunities for Japanese companies like Ajinomoto in Pakistan.

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