Pakistan is advancing a strategic plan to develop its domestic olive industry, aiming to significantly reduce the nation’s multi-billion dollar dependence on imported edible oils and save a substantial amount of foreign exchange annually.
Addressing the Pakistan Olive Summit 2.0, Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, emphasized that the olive sector holds the potential to become a new milestone in the country”s economic growth. He stated that with a coordinated approach, Pakistan could join the ranks of the world”s leading olive-producing nations, according to an official report today.
“Achieving self-sufficiency in olive production is no longer a dream but an achievable reality,” the minister declared. He envisioned olive oil evolving into a formidable export brand for Pakistan, with “Made in Pakistan” serving as a global symbol of trust, quality, and health.
The initiative is expected to invigorate rural economies by increasing farmers” incomes and promoting the efficient use of agricultural land. Rana Tanveer Hussain highlighted that the drought-tolerant nature of olive trees also offers considerable environmental benefits, contributing to water conservation and ecological protection.
To foster this growth, the ministry is championing the adoption of modern technology throughout the entire olive value chain, from cultivation and oil extraction to processing and marketing. Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models are being implemented to accelerate investment in this promising agricultural domain.
The minister noted that vast opportunities exist for private sector investment in the industry. To facilitate this, the government is establishing Olive Clusters across different regions, designed to enhance collaboration among farmers, agricultural experts, and investors.
Describing the initiative as a model of climate-smart agriculture, he explained that expanded olive cultivation would aid in soil preservation, temperature regulation, and the reduction of the country’s carbon footprint.
Rana Tanveer Hussain also underscored the crucial role of young farmers, whom he identified as vital for advancing the sector through their ability to adopt modern scientific methods and connect with new markets.
The Ministry of National Food Security and Research is currently developing a “National Olive Plan 2030.” This policy framework will focus on research, investment, training, and international cooperation to ensure the sustainable promotion of olive cultivation.
‘Olive is not merely a crop – it is a symbol of prosperity, sustainability, and self-reliance for Pakistan,’ the Federal Minister concluded. ‘We will make olive the identity of Pakistan and introduce it as a strong national brand in the global market.’