Indonesian diplomats and Pakistani scientists have called on to increase local oil pallet cultivation to reduce the country’s heavy dependence on imported edible oil.

As Pakistan is currently importing 92% of the edible oil, which costs about $ 4-5 billion annually, experts emphasized that growing at least 60,000 hectares of oil palm could attract an investment of $ 30 million and significantly reduce the import bill.

An Indonesian High Level Delegation, led by functioning General Consul Teguh Wiwiek and Consul for Economic Affairs Dr. Ahmad Syophyan, visited Sindh Agriculture University (SAU) Tandojam to explore opportunities for joint research and technical collaboration.

The delegation underwent the progress of experimental plantation during Sau-Dalda Oil Palm Pilot Project at the University’s Latif Experimental Farm and participated in discussions with SAU Vice-Chancellor professor Dr. Altaf Ali Siyal and other Faculty Members.

Altaf Ali Siyal said that Pakistan’s coastal regions, including Sindh and Balochistan, had ideal climatic conditions for oil pallet cultivation. However, to further extend the scope, SAU performs research in collaboration with Malaysia and other international partners to develop oil palm varieties suitable for dry regions.

“The university is actively engaged in research at Latif Experimental Farms and in Kathore, near Karachi, in collaboration with various organizations to assess the commercial feasibility of oil palm,” he said.

The experts agreed that a strong collaboration with Indonesia, the world’s leading palm oil producer, could help Pakistan introduce modern agronomic practice and improve domestic edible oil production.

When he spoke at the meeting, Consul confirmed Economic Affairs Dr. Ahmad Syophyan Indonesia’s obligation to support Pakistan’s oil palm sector through research partnerships, student scholarships, exchange programs and technical assistance.