{
  "id": 3189114,
  "title": "PM Launches National Olive Value Chain Policy To Cut Edible Oil Imports",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/25/pm-launches-national-olive-value-chain-policy-to-cut-edible-oil",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-08-25T03:58:05.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "ProPakistani",
    "slug": "propakistani",
    "url": "https://propakistani.pk/2026/08/25/pm-launches-national-olive-value-chain-policy-to-cut-edible-oil-imports/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif inaugurated the Pakistan National Olive Value Chain Policy, with the goal of turning Pakistan's burgeoning olive industry into a key supplier of domestically produced edible oil, rural earnings and revenue from exports. Addressing the launch event, Sharif highlighted Pakistan's annual expenditure of around $4 billion on edible oil imports, stating that even a $400 million reduction in these imports through increased domestic production would be a substantial achievement. He voiced confidence in achieving olive oil self-sufficiency within a few years. The prime minister emphasized the need to expand the olive value chain, encompassing oil production, processing and enhancement, not just cultivation. He assured farmers of comprehensive government support and stressed practical steps to drive agricultural transformation. Sharif acknowledged Italy's aid in developing Pakistan's olive sector and announced that the government would cover the expenses of sending 100 young agricultural graduates to Italy for specialized training in olive cultivation, production, processing and marketing. Italian Ambassador to Pakistan Ugo Ciarlatani noted that the new policy emerged from over seven decades of bilateral cooperation, mentioning that the $100 million Pakistan Italy Debt Swap Program facilitated the establishment of olive orchards across Pakistan, while Italy's Olive Culture Project supported laboratories, nurseries, business groups and provided training to more than 700 stakeholders. Pakistan currently hosts over 7 million olive plants, as per the Italian ambassador. Italy is also funding a €20 million capacity building program focused on high-value agriculture, including olive cultivation and production. National Food Security and Research Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain said the government would supply disease-free seeds and utilize technology to minimize crop losses. He added that Pakistan's membership in the International Olive Council would bolster research, training, technology and quality certification in the sector. National Food Security and Research Secretary Amer Ali Ahmed stated that Pakistan aims to commence exporting olive oil to markets in South, East and Central Asia. He also mentioned that the sector could generate new prospects for farmers and businesses as the country develops a complete olive value chain. Sharif also presented shields to olive growers and experts and toured stalls showcasing locally produced olive products. Farmers Abdul Jabbar from Loralai, Quratul Ain Irfan from Mardan and Yaqoob Izhar from Chakwal also addressed the gathering.",
  "summary": "Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has launched the Pakistan National Olive Value Chain Policy, aiming to transform the country’s growing olive … Read More The post PM Launches National Olive Value Chain Policy To Cut Edible Oil Imports appeared first on ProPakistani .",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}