Malaysian Palm Oil To Further Enhance Pakistan’s Edible Oil Industry, Says Johari

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 11 (Bernama) -- Malaysian palm oil and its products hold significant potential in further enhancing Pakistan’s edible oil and food manufacturing sectors, strengthening the longstanding partnership between both countries, said Minister of Plantation and Commodities Datuk Seri Johari Abdul Ghani.

He said the food sector in Pakistan is experiencing remarkable growth, currently valued at US$115 billion (US$1 = RM4.50) and projected to expand at a rate of 7.5 per cent over the next five years.

“This expansion highlights the opportunities for Malaysian palm oil and palm-based speciality fats to become essential ingredients in driving innovation and meeting the increasing demand for advanced applications within this thriving sector,” he said in his keynote address at the 7th Pakistan Edible Oil Conference in Karachi today.

Johari noted that Pakistan consumes over five million tonnes of oils and fats annually, with palm oil being a major component in food manufacturing, as well as in the personal care and oleochemical industries.

“Malaysia’s strength in research and development (R&D) positions us as a key partner for Pakistan by providing tailored solutions for advanced usage in the food service industry. 

“Our expertise in developing customised formulations enables manufacturers to enhance product quality and cater to the unique demands of Pakistan’s growing market effectively,” he said.

Johari also highlighted the growing trade between the two countries, stating that Pakistan imported 798,000 tonnes of Malaysian palm oil.

Beyond the food sector, he said there is substantial potential to expand the use of palm-based oleochemicals in Pakistan’s personal care and household industries.

“Malaysia’s advancements in oleochemical technology and sustainable practices offer an excellent opportunity to introduce premium raw materials for products such as soaps, cosmetics, and household goods, contributing to the diversification and growth of Pakistan’s manufacturing capabilities.

“To further capitalise on this potential, I encourage industries in Pakistan to focus on expanding the imports of palm-based packed and finished products alongside bulk trade,” he said. 

By leveraging Malaysia’s advancements in R&D and technology, the minister said Pakistani manufacturers can unlock greater value addition, enhance efficiency, and strengthen their competitiveness in both domestic and international markets.

“By building on the already strong collaborative ties between our two nations, this approach will enable us to further advance our existing partnerships and create new opportunities for growth in the palm oil sector,” he said.

Meanwhile, Johari praised the joint ventures between Malaysia and Pakistan, particularly the refining and storage facilities at Port Qasim, which he described as a testament to the strong partnership between both nations.

“Malaysia’s long-term presence in the Pakistani oils and fats industry provides us with a great platform to explore new opportunities and further advance our shared goals,” he added. 

Johari also mentioned the ongoing review of the Malaysia-Pakistan Closer Economic Partnership Agreement (MPCEPA), which aims to unlock more trade opportunities between the two countries.

“This review will ensure that both nations are able to fully benefit from our growing economic partnership,” he said.

--BERNAMA