KARACHI: Indonesian Consul General in Karachi, Madzaker M.A., has emphasised that enhancing bilateral cooperation between Pakistan and Indonesia, particularly in the edible oil sector has become an urgent necessity, as strong partnerships are essential for sustainable development and shared prosperity.
He expressed these views during a meeting with Sheikh Umer Rehan, Chairman of the Pakistan Vanaspati Manufacturers Association (PVMA), at the Indonesian Consulate in Karachi.
Rashid Jan Muhammad and Ahmed Ghulam Hussain were also present at the meeting.
The Consul General stated that Indonesia possesses extensive experience in palm oil cultivation and processing and can offer Pakistan technical assistance, training programs, and technology transfer in this field.
He noted that enhanced agricultural cooperation and the exchange of expertise would further strengthen economic ties between the two countries.
Speaking on the occasion, PVMA Chairman Sheikh Umer Rehan said that Pakistan is among the major importers of edible oil from Indonesia, with palm oil imports making Indonesia a key and reliable trading partner. He highlighted that around 90 percent of the palm oil consumed in Pakistan is imported from Indonesia, underscoring the strategic importance of bilateral trade relations.
He explained that Pakistan’s domestic production of edible oil is far below national demand, forcing the country to rely heavily on imports.
In this context, trade relations with Indonesia are not only important but also of strategic significance.
Sheikh Umer Rehan noted that edible oil is a basic daily necessity in Pakistan, while Indonesia is the world’s largest producer of palm oil and Pakistan one of its major buyers.
While the trade relationship spans several decades, he observed that in recent years certain administrative, commercial, and technical challenges particularly tariff and non-tariff barriers have adversely affected the pace of cooperation.
He stressed that these issues could be mitigated through sustained bilateral dialogue and consultation.
The PVMA Chairman further stated that Pakistan can collaborate with Indonesia in the development of value-added products, adding that stronger cooperation between governments as well as the private sector is essential.
He proposed joint business forums, exchange of trade delegations, and the creation of new investment opportunities to enable both countries to benefit from each other’s experience.
He also pointed out that Indonesian investment in palm oil refining, storage, and value addition in Pakistan could significantly reduce import costs while generating new employment opportunities.
Sheikh Umer Rehan added that Indonesian palm oil meets international quality standards and can be effectively utilized by Pakistan’s edible oil industry.
During the meeting, both sides held detailed discussions on key industry-related issues, mutual trade interests, and avenues for expanding cooperation. Rashid Jan Muhammad and Ahmed Ghulam Hussain also shared their views, emphasizing the need to broaden bilateral collaboration across various sectors.
Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining close coordination and cooperation to further strengthen Pakistan’s edible oil sector in the coming years.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
