Pakistan & Italy Strengthen Cooperation for a Sustainable Olive Sector

The 4th Steering Committee Meeting of the OliveCulture Scale-Up Project was held at the Ministry of National Food Security & Research (MNFSR), in which progress was reviewed for the Project’s final year.

The meeting acknowledged the longstanding cooperation between Pakistan and Italy and the progress made in developing a competitive and sustainable olive sector.

The Committee highlighted important milestones, including the launch of the National Olive Value Chain Policy, Pakistan’s permanent membership in the International Olive Council (IOC), strengthened laboratory facilities, technical capacity building, and improvements in olive oil quality standards.

Discussions focused on consolidating achievements through stronger national institutions, quality assurance systems, demonstration farms and greater public–private sector collaboration.

Progress in nursery management and the economic empowerment of women through Olive Business Development Groups (OBDGs) was appreciated, with emphasis on ensuring lasting benefits for farmers, entrepreneurs and rural communities.

Priorities for the final year include strengthening the Pakistan Olive Oil Council, developing a national quality-label framework, establishing an official sensory tasting panel, enhancing technical skills, and creating better market opportunities for Pakistani olive products.

CIHEAM Bari implements the OliveCulture Scale-Up Project with support from the Government of Italy through AICS, in partnership with MNFSR.