Speaking at the ‘National Workshop on Soybean Production in Pakistan,’ the Minister emphasized the need to make soybean production economically feasible.
Caretaker Minister for National Food Security and Research has stressed the importance of integrating soybean cultivation into Pakistan’s agricultural landscape while ensuring ecological compatibility. Speaking at the ‘National Workshop on Soybean Production in Pakistan,’ the Minister emphasized the need to make soybean production economically feasible.
The workshop, organized by the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, aimed to explore opportunities and strategies for enhancing soybean cultivation in the country.
The Minister highlighted the significant linkages between soybean production and key stakeholders such as the poultry and solvent industry, which heavily relies on soybean as a crucial ingredient. Ensuring the economic viability of soybean production is essential for creating a sustainable and profitable ecosystem.
National Food Security and Research Secretary, Mohammad Mahmood, urged PARC and the University of Faisalabad to collaborate on developing a Soybean-2030 plan. The goal of this plan would be to achieve self-sufficiency in soybean production within the country. Mahmood emphasized the importance of engaging with provinces regarding soybean production, and he assured that the ministry would play its role in facilitating these efforts.
PARC Chairman, Dr. Ghulam Mohammad Ali, highlighted the availability of resources to materialize the soybean integration plan. He stressed the need to fully harness these resources, emphasizing the initiative’s immense importance. Notably, successful implementation of the plan has the potential to save billions of dollars spent on importing soybeans, contributing to economic sustainability.
Soybean cultivation offers various benefits, including its versatility as a protein source for both human and animal consumption. Additionally, soybeans are a valuable ingredient in the production of cooking oil and other industrial products.
As Pakistan explores opportunities to enhance soybean production, the workshop serves as a platform for collaboration between government agencies, research institutions, and other stakeholders. The focus on a strategic Soybean-2030 plan underscores the commitment to achieving self-sufficiency in soybean cultivation, aligning with broader agricultural and economic goals for the country.