The 7th Grand National Olive Gala 2025 concluded at F-9 Park, Islamabad, marking another milestone in Pakistan’s efforts to strengthen its olive value chain through continued collaboration with the Government of Italy. The three-day national event was organized under the auspices of the Ministry of National Food Security and Research (MNFSR), featuring extensive exhibitions, knowledge-sharing sessions, and interactive discussions focused on innovation, quality assurance, and sustainable agriculture.
The inaugural ceremony was led by Federal Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain, with participation from senior officials, Italian representatives, development partners, farmers, and entrepreneurs. Speaking at the opening, Dr. Salvatore Parano, Italian Trade Commissioner, and Dr. Marcello Goletti, representing OliveCulture ScaleUp Project, emphasized the growing partnership between Pakistan and Italy in promoting research, processing, and market development within the olive sector.
A key highlight of the event was the panel discussion on “National Olive Value Chain Policy & Road Map 2024–2030”, outlining the strategic direction for policy harmonization, quality standards, and climate-resilient growth. The policy framework, developed in consultation with national and international experts, is currently under approval by the Government of Pakistan and is expected to serve as a comprehensive roadmap to strengthen the olive value chain and enhance export potential. Mr. Giuliano Ramat from the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS) highlighted the importance of institutional collaboration in ensuring policy implementation and long-term sectoral development.
Another significant session titled “Transforming Skills into Social Business for Women and Youth Development” focused on inclusive economic participation, with community-based olive groups sharing experiences of entrepreneurship and innovation at the grassroots level. Similarly, the panel on “From Extraction to Excellence: Quality, Certification, and Marketing of Olive Oil” and “Advancing Good Agricultural Practices: Insights and Lessons Learned” explored ways to modernize production and strengthen Pakistan’s olive oil quality certification systems.
Over 100 stalls representing farmers, entrepreneurs, and olive processors participated in the exhibition, showcasing locally produced olive oils, cosmetics, and value-added products. The event also featured B2B meetings, technical demonstrations, and interactive learning spaces for families and visitors.
The Grand National Olive Gala 2025 reaffirmed the shared commitment of Pakistan and Italy to advancing a sustainable, competitive, and inclusive olive industry, contributing to rural livelihoods, food security, and climate resilience across olive-growing regions of the country.
