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ISLAMABAD, Dec 12 (APP):Minister for National Food Security & Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain on Friday said that the government was prioritizing the supply of quality saplings, research, modern oil extraction facilities and overall improvement of the olive value chain to promote olive cultivation in the country.
Addressing the inaugural session of the 7th National Olive Festival, the minister said that government was taking measures for the upgrading olive packaging, branding and marketing to international standards, which was essential to enhance its exports.
The minister stated that Pakistan has vast potential for olive cultivation and that the crop is no longer an experiment but hays now matured into a fully emerging industry.
He said that Pakistan’s climate is highly suitable for the cultivation of premium-quality olives, adding that olives were an effective solution to climate change and an ideal crop for water-scarce regions.
He noted that the olive sector is providing thousands of farmers with profitable and climate-resilient livelihoods, while also creating new business and employment opportunities in rural economies.
He highlighted that Pakistan has the potential to become a leading regional hub for olive cultivation and processing, adding that the consumption of olive oil and other olive products is increasing in the country, and a portion of Pakistan’s olive oil is already being exported — including the award-winning Pakistani olive oil that secured a silver medal in the United States.
Rana Tanveer Hussain noted that olives constitute a major global agricultural industry, citing Spain’s $11 billion and Italy’s significant annual exports. In comparison, Pakistan’s total agricultural exports stand at $9 billion, while the country spends $4 billion annually on importing palm oil.
He emphasized that by increasing domestic olive production, Pakistan can not only meet its own needs but also generate valuable foreign exchange through exports in the coming years.
He appreciated the support of the Italian government for the development of Pakistan’s olive sector, noting that Italy is providing technical assistance and has also approved a €20 million project for Pakistan. He further announced that Pakistan is expected to become a member of the International Olive Council within the next two to three months, which will enhance global recognition of Pakistan’s olive industry.
The minister reiterated that farmers are the backbone of the country and assured that the government will extend all possible support to them. He expressed confidence that olives have become a strategic crop for Pakistan and that the country’s journey towards becoming an “olive hub” is progressing rapidly.