Pakistan joins World’s Leading Olive-Producing Nations with Permanent IOC Membership

ISLAMABAD/LISBON — Pakistan achieved a landmark milestone in its agricultural journey, securing Permanent Member seat on the International Olive Council (IOC) during Council’s 123rd Session in Portugal. The South Asian nation is emerging as promising olive producer on international stage, boasting more than 7 million olive trees cultivated across 55,669 acres, with cultivation expanding rapidly across diverse regions ideally suited for olive growth. Federal Minister for National Food Security & Research Rana Tanveer Hussain led Pakistan’s delegation at prestigious gathering, accompanied by Pakistan’s Ambassador to Portugal, H.E. Aisha Farooqui. The occasion marks Pakistan’s growing prominence in the global olive sector and its emergence as a promising producer of high-quality olives and olive oil. The country joined 27 other olive-producing nations as a permanent member, receiving a warm welcome from the IOC Executive Director, the Chairman, and representatives of member countries. Addressing the Council, Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to advancing the IOC’s mission of promoting sustainable olive cultivation, quality production, and international cooperation. He highlighted Pakistan’s remarkable progress in developing a thriving olive industry. Pakistan also established farm-to-fork olive value chain, supported by 51 olive oil extraction units, modern processing facilities, certified nurseries, weather monitoring stations, and four IOC-compliant quality laboratories—creating a strong foundation for a competitive and sustainable olive economy. The self-sufficiency in producing certified olive saplings will cut dependence on imports while strengthening domestic production capacity. The country’s growing reputation has also earned international recognition, including a Silver Award at the New York International Olive Oil Competition (NYIOOC). Pakistan’s permanent membership in IOC sho