C³rdoba: Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, has reaffirmed Pakistan’s strong commitment to developing a modern, sustainable, and globally competitive olive sector. He made these remarks at the World Olive Day celebration during the 122nd Session of the Council of Members of the International Olive Council (IOC) held in C³rdoba, Spain.

According to Radio Pakistan, the Minister noted that Pakistan is naturally endowed with billions of wild olive trees, and nearly four million hectares of land is suitable for olive cultivation. He emphasized that under the National Olive Program, more than seven million olive trees have been planted over the past fifteen years, reflecting Pakistan’s long-term vision for building a thriving olive-based economy.

He further explained that the Government of Pakistan is strengthening the public-private partnership model to accelerate sectoral development. This collaboration is reportedly improving efficiency across the olive value chain. Rana Tanveer Hussain also highlighted Pakistan’s recent international recognition, noting that the Pakistani startup “LO – Loralai Olives” won the Silver Award at the New York Olive Oil Quality Competition.