ISLAMABAD: The Al Baraka Pakistan Olive Summit 2024, held recently at the Islamabad Marriott Hotel, brought together key national and international experts, policymakers, and industry leaders to advance Pakistan’s olive industry. Under the theme “Developing a Safe, Sustainable & Ready-to-Export Supply Chain of the Olive Sector,” the summit emphasized Pakistan’s potential to emerge as a significant player in the global olive market.
The event was inaugurated by Mr. Rana Awais Khan, Chairman of the National Alliance for Safe Food, who underscored the importance of a robust, sustainable, and export-ready olive sector for Pakistan. Expressing gratitude to Al Baraka Bank Pakistan for its sponsorship, Mr. Khan highlighted the summit’s focus on fostering collaboration among farmers, industry experts, and policymakers. “This summit is a testament to our commitment to transforming Pakistan’s olive sector by empowering local farmers, enhancing rural economies, and creating an international presence for Pakistani olive products,” he stated.
Keynote Speakers and Sessions
Mr. Muhammad Atif Hanif, CEO of Al Baraka Bank Pakistan, delivered a keynote address highlighting Al Baraka’s dedication to supporting Pakistan’s agricultural sector, especially through sustainable olive cultivation. His Excellency Mr. Rana Tanveer Hussain, Federal Minister for National Food Security & Research and Chief Guest, reinforced the government’s commitment to supporting the olive sector, pointing out the significant progress already achieved, including over 6.3 million olive trees planted across 51,000 acres in Pakistan.
During his speech, Minister Hussain emphasized the government’s ongoing initiatives to support the olive industry, including research, quality certification, and the formation of a national olive council. He also acknowledged the crucial role of international collaboration, signaling Pakistan’s intent to join the International Olive Council, further bolstering its olive sector on the global stage.
Guest of Honor Remarks By:
Remarks by H.E. Nader K. Alturk, Counsellor Deputy Head of Mission, Palestine
Remarks by H.E Dr. Maen Khreasat, Ambassador of Jordan
Remarks by H.E Mohammad Azhar Bin Mazlan, High Commissioner, Malaysia
Comprehensive Program Agenda
The summit’s program featured sessions addressing key issues for the olive industry, including:
Olive Sector Development: Led by Dr. Muhammad Tariq, National Project Director of the PSDP Olive Program, the session explored the sector’s growth and its vast potential for expansion.
Standards in Testing, Certification, and Branding: Presentations by Mr. Muhammad Awais and Mr. Rizwan Buttar, Chief Innovation Officer at ZAUQ Group, focused on establishing international standards to ensure quality and competitiveness in global markets.
Panel Discussions on Government Support, Innovation, and Economic Growth: Industry experts discussed the importance of government policies, research, and strategic partnerships to boost the economic viability and sustainability of the olive industry.
Closing Session
The summit’s closing session featured distinguished remarks by Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, Chairman of the Prime Minister Youth Programme. He emphasized the critical role of youth engagement in the agricultural sector, particularly in innovative practices and sustainable growth initiatives. His remarks resonated with the summit’s theme, underscoring the potential for Pakistan’s olive sector to generate economic opportunities and foster rural development.
A Vision for the Future
The Al Baraka Pakistan Olive Summit 2024 marks a significant milestone in the journey to establish Pakistan as a hub for quality olive production. With strategic investment, international partnerships, and a focus on sustainable practices, Pakistan’s olive industry is poised to not only meet domestic demand but also contribute significantly to global markets.
Institutes/Stakeholders Attended the Summit: (Also Available in Agenda)
Academic Institutes/Universities
Progressive Olive Farmers/Growers/Processors
Chambers / ICCI/Chakwal/Talaganng/Hatta, Harripur, Peshawar
Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF)
Pakistan Education Endowment Fund (PEEF)
Pakistan Agriculture Coalition
National Rural Support Program
International Development Organization(GRSP/ITC/Olive Culture/USAID/FAO/IWMI)
Alkhidmat, Helping Hand, PAS Forum, Pakistan Business Forum
PVMA
Provincial Food Authorities
CEFORT BARI Chakwal
Prime Minister Youth Programme
Trade Development Authority of Pakistan
Private Sector/Industries
Board of Investment
Pakistan National Accreditation Council
Pakistan Halal Authority
PSIR
PSQCA
Marketing & Branding Consultants
