FAISALABAD: The Punjab Agricultural Research Board (PARB), Ayub Agricultural Research Institute (AARI), University of Agriculture Faisalabad (UAF) and a team of soybean scientists have discussed a joint strategy to promote commercial soybean production and develop the crop’s value chain in Pakistan.
The meeting was attended by PARB Chief Executive Dr Abid Mahmood, Director General Research Punjab Dr Sajid-ur-Rehman of AARI Faisalabad, and other relevant stakeholders.
During the meeting, the soybean scientists briefed the leadership and participants on planned research and development initiatives, future strategies and findings from their recent visit to Australia.
Discussions focused on international cooperation, research partnerships, technology transfer and opportunities to promote value-added soybean products in Pakistan.
New Seed Storage Facilities Inaugurated
The participants also inaugurated newly established seed storage facilities at the AARI campus. The facilities are intended to improve seed preservation and support future research, development and commercial activities related to soybean cultivation.
Improved seed storage is an important component of agricultural research and production, helping maintain seed quality and supporting the availability of planting material for future cultivation.
Field Visit Highlights Research Potential
As part of the programme, participants visited a soybean field to observe the crop and discuss opportunities to advance research and commercial production through collaborative initiatives.
The participating institutions and scientists reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening cooperation in research, expanding soybean cultivation and supporting related business activities.
Strengthening Pakistan’s Agricultural Value Chain
Soybean is an important crop for the production of edible oil and protein-rich animal feed. Developing domestic production could help Pakistan diversify its agricultural sector and reduce reliance on imported soybean and related products.
However, progress will depend on coordinated research, access to quality seeds, effective storage, suitable production practices and stronger links between farmers, processors and industry.
The meeting concluded with an expression of appreciation to the participants, with stakeholders emphasising continued collaboration to advance soybean research and strengthen the crop’s commercial value chain in Pakistan.
