Islamabad: Federal Minister for Industries and Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan, announced the formation of a committee to draft an edible oil policy. The initiative aims to enhance local production and increase exports of ghee and edible oils. He shared this commitment during a meeting with Pakistan Vanaspati Manufacturers Association (PVMA) Chairman Sheikh Umer Rehan and industry leaders.
Prominent attendees included Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) President Atif Ikram Sheikh, Senior Vice Chairman Asjad Arif, Vice Chairman Khalid Islam, Sheikh Amjad Rashid, and Sohail Malik. The participants praised the government’s decision to prioritize the edible oil sector.
Reducing Import Reliance
Jam Kamal Khan emphasized the importance of reducing Pakistan’s reliance on imported edible oils. He noted that increasing local production is a top priority. The minister praised PVMA for its contributions and assured full government support to exporters, importers, and industrialists in the sector.
PVMA Chairman Sheikh Umer Rehan outlined the industry’s potential to export ghee and edible oils to African and Middle Eastern countries. He called for removing export barriers and reducing import duties on raw materials. Rehan stressed that Pakistan’s ghee and edible oil industry is the second-largest revenue-generating sector in the country.
Proposal for Rice Bran Oil Industry
Rehan proposed a pilot project to develop a rice bran oil industry. He explained that it could significantly reduce dependency on imports and bolster foreign exchange reserves. With adequate government support, Pakistan could also export rice bran oil globally, he added.
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Soybean, Sunflower, and Mustard Oils Promoted
Rehan urged the government to support local production of soybean, sunflower, and mustard oils. He highlighted these oils’ potential to meet domestic demand and strengthen the industry’s export capacity.
FPCCI’s Support for Ministry’s Efforts
FPCCI President Atif Ikram Sheikh commended the Ministry of Commerce’s efforts under Jam Kamal’s leadership. He assured the government of the business community’s full support for these initiatives.
Government-Industry Collaboration Ensured
The meeting reinforced the commitment to close collaboration between the government and industry stakeholders. Participants expressed optimism that the proposed edible oil policy would address critical challenges and unlock the industry’s potential.
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