InfoSAWIT, KARACHI — Amid global pressures on food supply and the rising demand for efficient and nutritious vegetable oil sources, Pakistan is increasingly solidifying its position as a strategic market for palm oil. Over 96 percent of the country's vegetable oil import needs are now met by palm oil, with annual consumption exceeding 3 million tons.
During a discussion session held last Thursday, industry experts called for increased public awareness of the benefits of palm oil—not only from economic and food security perspectives but also regarding sustainability and nutritional value.
"Palm oil is not just an industrial commodity; it is the backbone of Pakistan's food security," said Nadar Ali Ghanghro, Marketing Officer at the Malaysian Consulate General in Karachi. He emphasized that the natural stability, long shelf life, and affordability of palm oil make it crucial, especially for rural communities.
Furthermore, Ghanghro noted that palm oil is a source of cholesterol-free vegetable fat and trans-fat-free, rich in antioxidants such as tocotrienols and beta-carotene. "It is an essential part of a healthy diet that supports heart health and community well-being," he added, as reported by InfoSAWIT from Business Recorder on Saturday, June 21, 2025.
Attention also focused on productivity and land efficiency. Dr. Ramle Moslim, Deputy Director General of R&D at the Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB), explained that palm oil yields 4 to 10 times more oil per hectare compared to other oil-producing crops such as soybeans, sunflowers, or rapeseed.
"This efficiency is not only economically beneficial but also reduces pressure on natural ecosystems," Dr. Ramle stated. He noted that Malaysia currently has over 5.6 million hectares of palm oil land, supporting the livelihoods of more than 500,000 small farmers. "Palm oil makes a tangible contribution to global food stability."
Sustainability Trends in Pakistan
In recent years, the palm oil industry in Pakistan has also shown a significant shift towards more environmentally friendly practices. NIMIR CEO Zafar Mahmood explained that multinational companies in Pakistan now require certified RSPO palm oil supplies, whether through Mass Balance, Segregated schemes, or in line with NDPE (No Deforestation, No Peat, No Exploitation) principles.
"This change has driven the supply chain towards greater transparency and environmental responsibility," Mahmood said. He also emphasized that Pakistan's involvement in this global transformation has positive long-term impacts on the national food industry.
However, significant challenges still loom over public perception. Dr. Hammad Hassan, PhD and Lecturer at Aga Khan University, lamented the prevalence of misinformation about palm oil. "We need to distinguish between myths and scientific facts. Palm oil, when produced responsibly, is actually more sustainable than many other alternatives," he stated.
He added that palm oil supports thousands of jobs in the food processing and logistics sectors in Pakistan, while also serving as a vital source of nutrition.
Moreover, recent research has revealed the significant potential of palm oil in health and food intervention programs. One innovative approach currently being developed is the use of red palm oil to address micronutrient deficiencies in vulnerable groups such as children and pregnant women.
"Red palm oil is rich in natural vitamin A and antioxidants and is being tested as part of functional food solutions," Dr. Ramle explained. (T2)
