Pakistan seeks to reduce vegetable oil imports by expanding olive groves

The federal government has proposed an allocation of Rs. 2.02 billion for the Ministry of National Food Security and Research in the upcoming budget for FY 2025-26, with a significant portion of the funding aimed at promoting commercial olive cultivation across the country.

Rs. 500 million has been earmarked specifically to expand olive farming on a commercial scale. The initiative is being seen as a strategic move to reduce reliance on imported edible oils, diversify crop patterns, and tap into the global demand for high-quality olive oil.

Agricultural experts believe Pakistan has strong potential to become a major regional player in olive oil production, particularly in areas like Potohar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and parts of Balochistan, where climatic conditions are favorable.

Beyond olive cultivation, the proposed budget includes several other strategic allocations to support agricultural growth and food security:

• Rs. 485.8 million will be spent to expand command areas in barani (rain-fed) regions, enhancing irrigation and water management systems.
• Rs. 300 million is allocated to establish three feed certification laboratories in Balochistan, improving the quality control of animal feed in the province.
• Rs. 100 million has been set aside for a national program to increase oilseed production, further supporting the goal of reducing edible oil imports.
• Rs. 360 million is proposed for a disease prevention program for livestock, ensuring healthier herds and safeguarding rural economies.
• Rs. 200 million will go towards a feasibility study for a national agricultural productivity enhancement project.
• Another Rs. 100 million is planned for the feasibility of a Pakistan Model Agriculture Research Center, aimed at improving research and innovation in the agriculture sector.
• Finally, Rs. 45 million will be spent on a joint Pak-Korea project to produce certified low-grade wheat seed, focusing on increasing yield and quality.

Tags: olive oil