Indonesian diplomats and Pakistani agricultural experts have jointly called for expanding oil palm cultivation in Pakistan to reduce the country’s dependence on imported edible oil, which currently accounts for 92 percent of national consumption and costs between $4 to $5 billion annually.
During a visit to Sindh Agriculture University (SAU) Tandojam, a high-level Indonesian delegation led by Acting Consul General Mr. Teguh Wiwiek and Consul for Economic Affairs Dr. Ahmad Syofyan reviewed the SAU-Dalda Oil Palm Pilot Project at Latif Experimental Farm and explored opportunities for research and investment partnerships.
Experts at the meeting proposed that a minimum of 60,000 acres be allocated for oil palm cultivation, projecting potential investment of around $30 million. They identified Pakistan’s coastal belt, including regions in Sindh and Balochistan, as suitable zones for palm oil production.
SAU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Altaf Ali Siyal outlined the university’s ongoing research with Malaysian and international partners to develop oil palm varieties compatible with arid conditions. He added that experimental work is being carried out not only at Latif Farm but also in Kathore near Karachi.
Dr. Ahmad Syofyan expressed Indonesia’s readiness to assist Pakistan through technical support, student exchange programs, research collaboration, and skill development initiatives. He further highlighted the potential for infrastructure development including commercial nurseries and pilot oil extraction units.
The Indonesian delegation also offered Pakistan membership in the Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries (CPOPC), a platform that can provide policy alignment, market access, and global engagement in the palm oil industry.
Dr. Allah Wadhayo Gandahi, lead researcher at SAU, presented findings on commercial viability and cultivation prospects in coastal areas, while Dr. Muhammad Ismail Kumbhar, Director of University Advancement and Financial Assistance, shared updates on the university’s research activities focused on sustainable agriculture and climate-resilient crops.
The delegation visited the oil palm experimental field, observing the health of the plantations and indicating interest in scaling up commercial farming.