Soybeans could help Pakistan reduce vegetable oil imports

Pakistan believes that expanding soybean production could significantly reduce the country’s dependence on imported vegetable oils and save up to $3.4 billion annually. This was stated by Shahid Imran, Convenor of the Food Sector Committee of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry.

According to him, soybeans have strong import-substitution potential, but the sector must overcome several structural and market challenges to achieve sustainable growth. In particular, an efficient procurement, processing, and marketing system is needed to provide farmers with reliable demand and encourage wider cultivation.

In the 2024/25 marketing year, Pakistan imported approximately $344 million worth of soybean oil. In addition, the country purchased more than 2 million tonnes of soybeans, which are used primarily in the poultry feed industry. This highlights the growing dependence of the domestic market on soybean-related products.

At the same time, palm oil remains Pakistan’s dominant imported edible oil. In the 2025 fiscal year, palm oil imports are estimated at 3.21 million tonnes valued at around $3.4 billion. Due to its lower cost, palm oil continues to be the preferred choice for consumers, making large-scale substitution with soybean oil more challenging.

Experts emphasize that Pakistan needs to promote new crops with strong export potential or the ability to replace imports. With adequate government support and investment in value-chain development, soybeans could become an important contributor to the country’s food security and economic stability.

Tags: imports, edible oils, Pakistan, soybean