PM Shehbaz launches National Olive Value Chain Policy

August 25, 2026 (MLN): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has launched the Pakistan National Olive Value Chain Policy, aimed at converting the country's olive potential into economic prosperity and reducing its heavy reliance on imported edible oil.

Addressing the launching ceremony, the prime minister said Pakistan spends four billion dollars annually on edible oil imports, and that saving four hundred million dollars in a single year through enhanced domestic production would be a major achievement.

He expressed confidence that Pakistan can achieve self-sufficiency in edible oil within a few years, and thanked the Italian government for its cooperation in promoting olive cultivation in the country, said a press release issued.

He said Pakistan now needs to focus more on oil production, processing and value addition, adding that the government is prepared to send 100 young agricultural graduates to Italy, at its own expense, to acquire expertise in olive cultivation, production, processing and marketing.

Speaking earlier at the ceremony, Italian Ambassador to Pakistan Ugo Ciarlatani said Italy and Pakistan share a partnership spanning more than seven decades, with cooperation now extending across agriculture, science, education, trade and security.

 He said the new policy reflects years of collaboration between the two countries, including the 100-million-dollar Pakistan-Italy Debt Swap Programme, which helped establish olive orchards across Pakistan.

The ambassador said Pakistan currently has more than seven million olive plants, while Italy's Olive Culture Project has supported laboratories, nurseries, business groups and training for over 700 stakeholders.

He added that Italy is also backing Pakistan's technical and vocational education through a 20-million-euro capacity-building programme focused on high-value agriculture, including olive cultivation.

He expressed hope that the new policy would transform Pakistan's olive sector into a thriving agro-industry benefiting farmers, women and youth, while further strengthening Italy-Pakistan ties.

Copyright Mettis Link News