ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s Minister for National Food Security, Rana Tanveer Hussain, highlighted the country’s potential to become a regional leader in olive cultivation, with government initiatives focusing on improving sapling supply, research, processing, and global marketing standards.
Addressing the participants at the 7th National Olive Festival in the federal capital Islamabad, he said Pakistan's climate was highly suitable for the cultivation of premium-quality olives, state-run Radio Pakistan reported on Saturday.
Olive council membership
Hussain announced that Pakistan was expected to become a member of the International Olive Council within the next two to three months, which would enhance global recognition of Pakistan's olive industry.
He said Pakistan had the potential to become a leading regional hub for olive cultivation and processing.
Hussain stressed that the government was prioritizing the supply of quality saplings, research, modern oil extraction facilities, and overall improvement of the value chain.
Italian support lauded
The minister said upgrading olive packaging, branding, and marketing to international standards was essential.
Appreciating the support of the Italian government for the development of Pakistan's olive sector, he said Italy was providing technical assistance and had also approved a 20 million Euros project for Pakistan.
