Pakistan has achieved a major breakthrough in agriculture with the successful development of local soybean varieties. These new crops can withstand temperatures of up to 45°C, offering a solution to the country’s growing dependence on costly imports.
Speaking at the National Soybean Day ceremony at Ayub Agricultural Research Institute (AARI) Faisalabad, Dr. Javed Ahmad, Chief Scientist at the Wheat Research Institute, announced the achievement. He noted that Pakistan imports nearly 2 million tons of soybeans annually, costing almost $1 billion. The introduction of climate-resilient soybean varieties could reduce this burden and strengthen the national economy.
Dr. Ahmad explained that the locally developed crops are not only heat-tolerant but also high-yielding. Farmers adopting them could achieve 35 to 40 maunds per acre across spring and autumn seasons. He stressed that higher yields would improve food security and boost income for rural communities.
Agricultural experts highlighted the growing demand for soy-based products such as soy milk and plant-based foods, which enhance the commercial value of the crop. They also urged poultry and solvent extraction industries to ensure fair pricing for locally grown soybeans, similar to maize rates, to support farmer adoption.
Hafiz Saad bin Mustafa, an oilseed specialist, emphasized that soybean is a vital high-protein feed crop. He said its production is crucial to addressing Pakistan’s food security challenges, particularly in milk and meat.
Researchers including Dr. Muzaffar Hussain and Dr. Zaheer Ahmed explained that while soybeans usually require cooler climates, Pakistani scientists have successfully bred soybean varieties that thrive even in extreme heat conditions. This makes them suitable for the country’s agricultural zones.
The event also underscored the importance of public-private collaboration. Representatives of solvent and poultry sectors pledged direct procurement from farmers, while the State Bank of Pakistan assured financing for agricultural projects. Stakeholders nominated Dr. Khalid Mehmood Shouq as the national focal person for soybean promotion.
Experts believe that with the adoption of these soybean varieties, Pakistan could achieve self-sufficiency within three years and even export surplus to neighboring markets such as Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and Gulf countries.
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