Pakistan has taken a seat as a permanent member of the International Olive Council (IOC) for the first time, marking a significant milestone in its efforts to expand its footprint in the global olive industry. Federal Minister for Food Security Rana Tanveer Hussain attended the 123rd meeting of the IOC in Portugal on June 30, 2026, representing the country as a full member, according to a statement from his ministry.
Pakistan's Olive Cultivation Potential
Pakistan possesses around 10 million acres of land suitable for olive cultivation, but only 55,000 acres have been developed so far. Official data indicates that only about seven million olive plants have been planted to date, out of an estimated 1.3 billion required to reach full production capacity. The sector has the potential to generate over Rs834 billion ($3 billion) annually through olive oil exports once fully developed.
Addressing the International Olive Council
During the council meeting, which includes 27 other olive oil-producing nations, Minister Hussain highlighted Pakistan's progress in establishing a complete farm-to-fork value chain for olives. This includes 51 extraction units, processing facilities, nurseries, weather stations, and four IOC-aligned quality laboratories. “Pakistan has also achieved self-sufficiency in producing certified olive saplings domestically,” he was quoted as saying by the food ministry. “Pakistan looks forward to play its cooperative and positive role toward sustainable, and climate-resilient development of the global olive oil and table olives sector.”
Benefits of IOC Membership
Pakistan's IOC membership will enable its olive oil and table olives to be graded according to internationally recognized standards, paving the way for Pakistani extra virgin olive oil to enter high-value markets. The food security ministry emphasized that this recognition will enhance export opportunities and boost the country's olive industry.
Export Initiatives
In May 2026, Pakistani premium olive oil producer Loralai Olives launched operations in the UAE, targeting exports of Rs139 million ($500,000) by the end of this year. This move aligns with Pakistan's broader strategy to increase olive oil exports and leverage its IOC membership to access premium markets.
