It is estimated that 2% of soybean production is consumed by humans directly as food, which amounts to an approximately 3 MMT. In Pakistan Soybean oil production increased up to 260 (Tons) in year 2017 as compared to 240 (Tons) in 2016. 2
Why are soybeans not grown in Pakistan?
In Pakistan, the demand for soybean oil and meal has increased many folds as a raw material for industry in the country. Although the country has suitable agro-climatic conditions for soybean cultivation but the absence of varieties with high yield potential is one of the major reasons of its marginal cultivation.
When did soybean grow in Pakistan?
Soybean Crop and two other non-conventional oilseed crops, viz. Sunflower and Safflower were introduced in mid-sixties and commercial cultivation began in 1970-71. Coordinated Research work was started at Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) and Provincial Research Institutes in 1977-78 and eight soybean varieties were developed.
Which region is best suited for soybean cultivation in Pakistan?
Based on these trials’ vast areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP, formerly NWFP), Punjab and Sindh were found most suitable for commercial cultivation of soybean. However, at the onset of the current century, soybean cultivation was halted, and it gradually disappeared from cropping schemes of Pakistan.
Can we tap the local demand of soybean in Pakistan?
There is huge potential to tap the local demand of soybean by commercializing soybean crop in Pakistan. Moreover, the crop has been neglected for one reason or the other resulting in decline of its area under cultivation.
Why is soybean an important oilseed crop?
Soybean (Glycine max L.) is an important oilseed crop worldwide owing to its diversity of end uses. In the year 2019-20, globally 341.76 million metric tons of soybean was produced which is 61% of the total oilseeds production. Its seed contains 18-23% oil and 38-44% protein. Seed is processed to extract oil for human consumption.