C³rdoba: Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain has affirmed the government’s commitment to developing a sustainable and competitive olive value chain across Pakistan. He was addressing the 122nd Session of the Council of Members of the International Olive Council (IOC) held in C³rdoba, Spain.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Minister highlighted that Pakistan is endowed with millions of wild olive trees and nearly one million acres of marginal or low-productive land ideally suited for olive plantations. Over the past decade, around 50,000 acres have been successfully brought under olive cultivation, marking a significant milestone in the country’s agricultural diversification efforts.

Rana Tanveer Hussain announced that the government has formulated the Olive Value Chain Policy 2030, a comprehensive roadmap aimed at ensuring sustainable development, regulatory strength, and innovation within the olive industry, while aligning Pakistan’s efforts with global best practices.

Reaffirming Pakistan’s aspiration to expand its global engagement, the Minister stated that Pakistan is eager to become a full member of the 2015 International Agreement on Olive Oil and Table Olives. He expressed confidence that cooperation with the IOC, especially in areas of technical support, technology transfer, and human resource development, will further enhance Pakistan’s progress and productivity in the olive sector.