## PM Shehbaz Stresses Importance of Boosting Edible Oil Production
**ISLAMABAD:** Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday emphasized the urgent need to accelerate efforts towards increasing the domestic production of edible oil.
During a review meeting on the performance of the Ministry of National Food Security and Research and overall agricultural growth, PM Shehbaz stressed that boosting local edible oil production is crucial to reduce Pakistan’s reliance on imports.
The meeting served as a platform to discuss core strategies and initiatives focused on enhancing agricultural growth and fortifying national food security.
PM Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed the government’s dedication to providing all essential resources needed to bolster agricultural growth, production, research endeavors, and overall sector development.
Recognizing the vital role of innovation, Shehbaz Sharif directed authorities to engage young agricultural researchers from across Pakistan, bringing fresh perspectives and expertise to the field.
The PM also mandated a crackdown on companies selling substandard seeds. This initiative aims to uphold quality standards and ensure the reliability of agricultural inputs, thus securing national food security.
Furthermore, the Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) was instructed to intensify research activities to drive advancements in agricultural innovation.
The modernization of farming practices through the promotion of nationwide mechanization was also identified as a key priority.
The meeting additionally addressed the swift completion of all necessary procedures for the closure of the Pakistan Agricultural Storage and Services Corporation (PASSCO).
Attendees were briefed on strategies designed to increase agricultural exports and the progress of establishing the National Agri-Trade and Food Safety Authority, which is now nearing its final stages.
Federal Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain and other senior officials were present at the session, reflecting a unified commitment to strengthen the agricultural sector and ensure food security for the nation.
The session was attended by Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain and other officials.