KARACHI: The global edible oil industry has once again turned its focus to Karachi for the opening of the 8th Pakistan Edible Oil Conference (PEOC) 2026 held at the Hotel Mövenpick Karachi. This conference stands as Pakistan’s premier global industry event, serving as the primary networking platform for suppliers, buyers, and key stakeholders within the oils, fats, and oilseeds sectors. This prestigious annual forum marked a significant milestone with a keynote address by the Vice Minister of Trade of the Republic of Indonesia, H.E. Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri, B.A., M.Sc.
Accompanied by the Indonesian Ambassador to Islamabad, HE. Chandra W. Sukotjo and the Indonesian Consul General in Karachi, HE. Mudzakir, MA, the Vice Minister of Trade of the Republic of Indonesia graced the 8th PEOC on January 10, 2026.
In her keynote address at the Conference, Indonesian Vice Minister of Trade advanced the elevation of the relationship to a strategic economic partnership and the expansion of the existing trade agreement to a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) by 2027. Indonesia views CEPA as a strategic instrument to unlock greater market access, enhance trade facilitation, and create a more predictable and enabling environment for businesses in both nations, including in the edible oil sector.
She emphasized the need for balanced and sustainable trade growth beyond traditional imports and exports, including investment and joint ventures, and noted continued cooperation in sectors such as health and agriculture. The address is closely aligned with the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) wstablishing a Joint Trade Committee which has been officially signed.
The Vice Minister emphasized that, “Indonesia is proud of its longstanding brotherly relationship with Pakistan. At this juncture, we are witnessing a favourable political momentum that provides a foundation to advance bilateral economic relations to a higher level. This momentum is expected to further encourage trade flows and investment cooperation.
Looking ahead, Indonesia remains optimistic that bilateral trade will continue to grow in a more balanced and sustainable manner-not only through traditional import-export activities, but also through investment, joint-venture projects, downstream industries, and knowledge sharing that generate long-term value for both economies.”
Concluding her remarks, she commended the organizers for their continued efforts in bringing key stakeholders under one roof and wish the 8th PEOC every success in advancing the development and resilience of Pakistan’s edible-oil industry.
The Vice Minister’s presence underscores the vital strategic relationship between Indonesia, the world’s largest palm oil producer, and Pakistan, one of its most essential export markets. This visit serves as a direct follow-up to the state visit by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto to Islamabad in December 2025. Following the state visit Indonesia and Pakistan have entered a "Strategic Partnership." This coincides with 75 years of diplomatic relations and outlines key policy pillars and economic trajectories.
As Pakistan continues to diversify into value-added products, PEOC 2026 serves as a critical platform to showcase the country’s importance on the international stage. Through robust international cooperation, Pakistan is positioning itself as a premier logistics hub and market leader in South Asia.
Since its inception in 2016, the PEOC has been a catalyst for innovation in Karachi. As a cross-sectoral networking platform, the 2026 conference provides deep insights into price projections for global edible oils and oilseeds while honoring the contributions of international stakeholders who have supported the industry’s growth.
"PEOC aims to position Pakistan as one of the most vital markets in the global edible oil industry," stated the organizing committee. "We want the world to recognize Pakistan for its reliability, consistency, and regional logistical excellence." With the active participation of the Indonesian government and global experts, the 8th PEOC is expected to foster new collaborations that strengthen food security and stabilize edible oil prices in the global market.
