ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) on Friday entered into agreements with two olive oil marketing companies which will promote olive farming in the country as well as expand use of olive oil and other value added products.

The move will allow olive farmers to save their crop from wastage and sell the produce in a timely manner.

The companies from Lahore and Chakwal will contribute five per cent of their income towards the olive promotion project being carried out under the aegis of PARC.

Under the agreement, it was decided that olive oil and its products will be sold in the market with the logo of PARC as part of joint venture with the two private companies.

PARC will facilitate both the companies in purchasing of olives from farmers; ensure maintaining the quality of products and quality of testing facilities. The council is strengthening and promoting the olive cultivation and use of olive products in Pakistan through the olive promotion project.

Published in Dawn, November 1st, 2014