by PressLocal oilseed production in Pakistan needs modernisation
Local oilseed production in Pakistan and its challenges
Local oilseed production in Pakistan needs modernisation to increase yields. This includes rapeseed, sunflower, soya and other crops.
Experts say increasing productivity will help reduce the country’s dependence on edible oil imports. Pakistan buys about 3 million tonnes of the product to meet local demand. Total consumption is 4.5 million tonnes.
Palm oil production could be a solution to the problem, but this poses challenges for Pakistan. The country’s weather conditions are not conducive to the growth of palm trees. The optimal climate for them is that of Indonesia and Malaysia, with frequent rainfall. Therefore, a more promising option for Pakistan is to increase the cultivation of oilseeds.
According to M Bashir Janmohammad of Westbury, the focus should be on rapeseed, sunflower and cotton. Increased production will reduce imports and save foreign exchange. Strengthening our own agricultural sector will also reduce market volatility.
Options to reduce import dependence
Pakistan imports most of the raw materials for edible oil and banospati production. With a total consumption of 4.5 million tonnes, the country produces only 500,000 tonnes. The local agricultural sector needs stimulation. In addition to dependence on external supplies, imports put pressure on Pakistan’s limited foreign exchange reserves. The government is looking at palm oil. The SCDA development authority has enlisted the help of Malaysian companies. They will help establish palm cultivation along the coastal belt. This area has sufficient moisture for the trees to grow.
The government initiative is expected to meet a number of objectives, among which are:
— increasing local production;
— reducing pollution;
— lower cost of importing products.
Palm oil production in the country faces challenges. Local farmers do not have sufficient experience in palm cultivation. As a result, seed yields are low, making the process economically inefficient. The lack of storage facilities and infrastructure further exacerbates the situation. In addition, palm oil cultivation has its own peculiarities. The fruit spoils quickly, and transport requires special conditions. Targeted measures are needed to encourage local production. Developing the sector also requires investment not only in technological processes. It is also important to organise training for farmers.
Special attention should be paid to the cultivation of other oilseeds. Sunflower and rapeseed grow well in the local climate. With the right approach, these crops can produce high yields and meet some of the needs.