Pakistan imports nearly 1.35 million of olive oil every year which cost billions of rupees. The imported oil is also costly as compared to local olive oil.
This need can be met by producing our own olive crops. According to reports by different agricultural institutes across Pakistan, many areas, especially that of Punjab, have an excellent suitability for olive cultivation due to weather, soil and climatic conditions. According to PAMCO, over three million hectares of Punjab can be used for olive production which will not only meet the needs of Pakistan, but can also be exported. It may generate up to $1 billion for the economy. Many areas of Potohar are under test trials.
It is of intense need to bring awareness among the society, especially farmers and investors, about olive cultivation. A larger and wider campaign should be started to enhance this project.
MUHAMMAD SAAD-UL-HASSAN
Islamabad
