KARACHI: Pakistan’s agriculture sector is in urgent need of attention from government to boost local production of edible oil. Country’s annual import of edible oil stands at staggering $ 4 billion, causing significant drain on country’s economy.

Experts suggested that coastal areas of Sindh have high potential for production of palm, sesame and canola oils, but it is imperative that government takes swift action to increase production and reduce reliance on imports.

Former Vice Chairman of Pakistan Vanaspati Manufacturers Association Sheikh Umer Rehan called for urgent action to increase production of edible oil and seeds in country.

Due to State Bank of Pakistan’s decision to curb Letters of Credit (LCs) and shortage of foreign exchange, price of edible oil in country has been steadily rising, making it increasingly difficult for people to procure commodity, noted Rehan.

President of Concave Agri Services Muhammad Ali Iqbal said, “Biggest challenge is will of government.” Iqbal emphasised need for standardised approaches for cultivation of different edible oil plant varieties.

Due to non-standardised approaches, locally cultivated different edible oil plant varieties have not been able to achieve desired results.

President Sindh Chamber of Agriculture Miran Muhammed Shah highlighted that Southern Divisions of Sindh, including areas of Hyderabad, Mirpurkhas, and Shaheed Benazirabad are already making advances in growing oilseed crops. However, local farmers are not getting any support from government side in development of these seeds, including incentives like subsidised rates and ensuring availability and development of such seeds.

Vice President of Sindh Abadghar Board Mahmood Nawaz Shah said there is huge opportunity in Pakistan to grow oil seeds with sustained long-term policy. This policy will include provision of quality seeds/plants, proper pricing, and extension work so that growers can attain proper yields and return on crop.

Published in The Daily National Courier, April, 10 2023

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