Balochistan Economic Forum

Balochistan Economic Forum Formed in May 1992, Balochistan Economic Forum is a private Think Tank. It views the government to be one of its main supporters.

The program of the Forum has been designed to familiarize the National - International economic community with opportunities for Trade and Investment in the province of Balochistan, to keep corporate sector informed about current economic conditions in Balochistan, and to serve as a net work for business contacts in the Balochistan economic community. MORE SPECIFICALLY: It serves as a forum for t

he exchange of views and information between business executives-Develops a close relationship with business executives and organizations outside Balochistan- Organizes Conferences, Seminars and Trade missions - Distributes commercially relevant information with respect to economic, trade and investment matters in Balochistan - Assists business organizations that wish to develop or enlarge business interest in Balochistan. BACKGROUNDER: Since its inception, the Balochistan Economic Forum has played an important role in attracting foreign investments in the province of Balochistan. The Forum has been a key player in arranging and preparing high level conferences, seminars, round table conferences, executive and corporate meetings, aiming at constructing investment programs and drawing international investors towards Balochistan. Orienting foreign investors with the technical and strategic know-how of the modus operandi in this region. It continues to be the main powerhouse behind integrating foreign investments into Balochistan. By setting up and managing events that have helped develop Balochistan’s image over the years making it one of the most sought after provinces of Pakistan. In its events management role Balochistan Economic Forum has successfully organized seminars and conferences nationally and internationally, thus, bringing Balochistan to the World. As it continues to strive in improving the economic development in Balochistan and bringing to the World the attention that this province desperately needed in the past. RELATIONSHIP

TRIBAL SOCIETY: Over the past decade Balochistan Economic Forum has been the pioneer in bridging the modern world with the backward tribal areas of Balochistan. Balochistan Economic Forum has helped introduce the close knitted and deep cultural heritage of the Balochistan’s tribal society to the outside world. Through the years it has been a major task building and creating new vistas and opportunities for the natives of Balochistan, helping them help themselves in becoming self sufficient. Hence, introducing the modern world to the several tribal societies that exist in the region, without displacing their centuries old traditions of community life. DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS: Due to Balochistan Economic Forum’s vast dealings with foreign missions in Pakistan, it has been the main platform for acquainting the Province of Balochistan to the outside world. This has proved to be a milestone in the development of this province by introducing foreign investors seeking lucrative investments in this part of Pakistan. Balochistan Economic Forum’s aim has been to serve both governmental and diplomatic organizations and built economic understanding between Pakistan and its foreign counterparts. Balochistan Economic Forum continues to build its diplomatic links with countries through its diplomatic and governmental relations on a personal level. Understanding that diplomatic relations is one key area in which it can help facilitate more foreign investors to Balochistan, Balochistan Economic Forum has always held its dealing with foreign missions with high regard. In fact, the continued efforts of the forum have been realized by prominent Diplomatic personalities, such as the Ambassador of the United States of America who declared as ‘The Balochistan Economic Forum is truly the motor of Balochistan’s efforts to make the wider world aware of its impressive economic potential, and similarly the British Deputy High Commissioner has said ‘The Balochistan Economic Forum and its head is an Ambassador of the Balochistan Province. GOVERNMENTAL: Similarly, Balochistan Economic Forum holds its governmental relations with high regard. Understanding the governmental policies and regulations has always been a key factor in attracting foreign investors to the region, thus, over the years the level of support received from the government agencies has increased immensely. MEDIA RELATIONS: The Press in itself has been a key supporter in spotlighting Balochistan Economic Forum’s aims and objectives. Throughout the past decade there have been numerous press reports and editorials on the progressive achievements and future development plans of Balochistan Economic Forum. The press has not only served as a showcase for displaying the achievements of this organization but also as a medium for showing the rest of the world the potential and availability for future advancements in Balochistan. Balochistan Economic Forum in turn has used this to its advantage in taking its public relations dealing to higher levels. In the recent past, there has been a book published by a prominent senior journalist, which has been a specific tribute to the Balochistan Economic Forum’s role and endeavors to help bolster the image of Balochistan Province.

14/08/2026
STATEMENTBALOCHISTAN’S DEVELOPMENT FUNDS MUST SERVE BALOCHISTAN AND ITS PEOPLE Sardar Shoukat PopalzaiPresident - Baloch...
12/08/2026

STATEMENT

BALOCHISTAN’S DEVELOPMENT FUNDS MUST SERVE BALOCHISTAN AND ITS PEOPLE

Sardar Shoukat Popalzai
President - Balochistan Economic Forum

The reported concerns expressed by the World Bank over the diversion of funds from a rehabilitation and resilient housing programme intended for flood-affected communities in Balochistan are extremely serious and deserve immediate attention from both the Federal and Provincial Governments, the report says the World Bank warned that capping housing assistance and redirecting funds could leave 119,049 verified eligible households without identified financing, with 84% of eligible beneficiaries described as ultra-poor or vulnerable.

Balochistan is already Pakistan’s most development-deficient province, where poverty, inadequate infrastructure, unemployment, recurring natural disasters and limited access to basic services continue to place enormous pressure on ordinary citizens. Resources specifically committed for the rehabilitation of vulnerable and disaster-affected communities must therefore reach their intended beneficiaries and should not be diverted in a manner that compromises the original purpose of such assistance.

The World Bank’s warning that thousands of verified and eligible households could remain without identified housing assistance is particularly disturbing. These are not merely figures in a development programme; they represent families who have already suffered displacement, loss of property and economic hardship and who are looking towards the state and its development partners for rehabilitation and dignity.

The Balochistan Economic Forum has consistently maintained that the legitimate economic and developmental interests of Balochistan must never be overridden, diluted or ignored in national or provincial decision-making.

For decades, Balochistan has contributed enormously to Pakistan through its natural resources, strategic geography, minerals, energy potential, coastline and connectivity opportunities. Yet its development indicators continue to remain disproportionately weak. This imbalance cannot be corrected if funds allocated for Balochistan are diverted, priorities are changed without adequate consultation, or vulnerable communities are deprived of resources committed specifically for their rehabilitation.

Development funds are not accounting entries to be shifted from one head to another without consequences. Every rupee committed to the people of Balochistan carries an obligation of transparency, accountability and delivery.

We therefore urge the Federal Government and Government of Balochistan to immediately review the matter in consultation with the World Bank, ensure complete transparency regarding the utilisation and restructuring of the programme, and protect the legitimate entitlements of verified flood-affected families.

Balochistan does not seek preferential treatment. It seeks fairness, protection of its legitimate share and the assurance that resources committed in its name are actually spent for the benefit of its people.

Ignoring Balochistan’s development priorities ultimately carries a cost far greater than the financial value of any project: it weakens public confidence, discourages investment and widens the development gap.

Balochistan’s interests must be protected not as a concession, but as a national responsibility. -Ends-

The President - Balochistan Economic Forum, Sardar Shoukat Popalzai, Congratulates Switzerland on the occasion of the 73...
03/08/2026

The President - Balochistan Economic Forum, Sardar Shoukat Popalzai, Congratulates Switzerland on the occasion of the 735th National Day of the Swiss Confederation. (2026)

BALOCHISTAN'S LORALAI OLIVES WIN FOURTH INTERNATIONAL AWARD, REINFORCING PAKISTAN'S AGRICULTURAL SUCCESS STORY:Pakistan'...
27/07/2026

BALOCHISTAN'S LORALAI OLIVES WIN FOURTH INTERNATIONAL AWARD, REINFORCING PAKISTAN'S AGRICULTURAL SUCCESS STORY:

Pakistan's agricultural sector has achieved another historic milestone as Loralai Olives, produced in the Loralai district of Balochistan, won the Gold Medal at the Dubai Olive Oil Competition 2026, becoming Pakistan's first olive oil brand to receive four prestigious international quality awards for its premium Extra Virgin Olive Oil.

The latest triumph follows the brand's earlier international successes, including the Silver Award at the New York International Olive Oil Competition (NYIOOC), the Gold Medal at the London International Olive Oil Competition, and recognition at the Berlin Global Olive Oil Awards. These consecutive achievements firmly establish Balochistan as an emerging producer of world-class olive oil and place Pakistan on the global map of premium olive oil producers.

The award-winning Arbequina Monovarietal Extra Virgin Olive Oil is produced under stringent international quality standards through hand-harvesting, cold extraction, and stainless-steel storage, ensuring exceptional taste, nutritional value, purity, and sustainability.

The Dubai Gold Medal carries particular commercial significance as the United Arab Emirates is one of the world's fastest-growing olive oil markets and serves as a strategic export destination for Pakistani agricultural products. Since entering the UAE market in May 2026, Loralai Olives has announced plans to export US$500,000 worth of olive oil by the end of 2026, while also targeting expansion into the United States and Singapore.

Pakistan's olive sector continues to witness remarkable growth following the country's accession to the International Olive Council (IOC), a development expected to further strengthen quality standards, international cooperation, and export competitiveness.

The success of Loralai Olives reflects the impact of Pakistan's Olive Cultivation Initiative, launched in 2012, under which thousands of farmers received certified saplings, modern irrigation systems, technical assistance, and access to oil extraction facilities. In Loralai, a government established olive mill with a crushing capacity of 600 kilograms per hour enables olives to be processed within six to eight hours of harvesting, preserving their premium quality.

Pakistan currently has nearly 10 million acres of land suitable for olive cultivation and aims to produce 4,600 tonnes of olive oil by 2030, positioning itself as an emerging player in the global olive oil industry.

Statement by Sardar Shoukat Popalzai -
President, Balochistan Economic Forum

Welcoming the latest international recognition, Sardar Shoukat Popalzai, President of the Balochistan Economic Forum, described the Dubai Gold Medal as another defining milestone for Balochistan and Pakistan's agricultural transformation.

'The fourth international award earned by Loralai Olives is not merely a commercial success; it is a powerful endorsement of Balochistan's enormous agricultural potential and the determination of our farmers, entrepreneurs, researchers, and institutions. It demonstrates that products originating from Balochistan can successfully compete with the finest brands in the world.'

He said the continued international recognition proves that Balochistan possesses the climate, fertile landscapes, and natural resources required to become Pakistan's leading hub for premium, export-oriented agriculture.

Sardar Shoukat Popalzai called upon the Federal Government, the Government of Balochistan, and all relevant public sector organizations including the Ministry of National Food Security & Research, Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC), Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), SMEDA, financial institutions, and provincial agricultural departments to significantly expand investment in:

- Olive plantation expansion across suitable districts.
- Modern irrigation and mechanized harvesting.
- Research and development.
- Processing and bottling facilities.
- International quality certification.
- Export promotion and branding.
- Farmer training and value-chain development.

He further stated:

'The success of Loralai Olives should serve as a national model for agricultural diversification. With sustained public investment, modern technology, and strong public-private partnerships, Balochistan can become a globally recognized centre for premium olive oil and other high-value crops including dates, grapes, almonds, pistachios, cherries, apples, pomegranates, and medicinal plants. Agriculture is not merely a sector it is one of the strongest foundations for sustainable economic growth, rural prosperity, employment generation, food security, and export diversification.'

The Balochistan Economic Forum congratulates Loralai Olives, its management, farmers, agricultural scientists, and all stakeholders whose dedication has brought international recognition to Pakistan. Their achievement is a source of pride for the province and the nation and demonstrates that Balochistan is emerging as a new frontier of agricultural excellence, innovation, and export-led economic development. -Ends-

President Balochistan Economic Forum, Sardar Shoukat Popalzai, extends his warmest felicitations to President Emmanuel M...
14/07/2026

President Balochistan Economic Forum, Sardar Shoukat Popalzai, extends his warmest felicitations to President Emmanuel Macron, the Government, and the friendly people of the French Republic on the joyous occasion of France’s National Day, 14th July.

He conveys sincere best wishes for the continued peace, prosperity, and progress of France, and for the enduring friendship between Pakistan and France.....

THE PRESIDENT, BALOCHISTAN ECONOMIC FORUM, SARDAR SHOUKAT POPALZAI - DECLARATION:The year 2026 marks the completion of 7...
04/07/2026

THE PRESIDENT, BALOCHISTAN ECONOMIC FORUM, SARDAR SHOUKAT POPALZAI - DECLARATION:

The year 2026 marks the completion of 79 years of diplomatic relations between the Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the United States of America, to commemorate the 79th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between two countries - the President Balochistan Economic Forum, Sardar Shoukat Popalzai, proudly presented a declaration.

Since its inception in 1992 the Balochistan Economic Forum has attracted American business houses to the investment potential of Balochistan and vice versa has supported the economic community of the province of Balochistan to engage with the American business community, the Forum has been a key player in arranging and preparing high level conferences, executive and corporate meetings, aiming at constructing investment programs and drawing American investors towards Balochistan, orienting American investors with the technical and strategic know-how of the modus operandi in the province of Balochistan, it has organized several conferences and trade missions to and from the United States of America.

The Ambassador of the United States of America has declared ‘The Balochistan Economic Forum is truly the motor of Balochistan’s efforts to make the wider world aware of its impressive economic potential’.

The United States Government presently has 15 civilian assistance programs in Balochistan focused on economic growth, agriculture, microenterprise development, road construction, reading programs, water resources, health and education. The faculty of education building at Lasbela University aims to become a national centre of excellence in the field of education. -ENDS-

President Balochistan Economic Forum, Sardar Shoukat Popalzai, extends his warmest felicitations to President Donald J. ...
04/07/2026

President Balochistan Economic Forum, Sardar Shoukat Popalzai, extends his warmest felicitations to President Donald J. Trump, the Government, and the friendly people of the United States of America on the joyous occasion of their National Day.

He conveys sincere best wishes for the continued peace, prosperity, and progress of the United States, and for the enduring friendship between Pakistan and the United States.

CPEC gave Balochistan roads and power. CPEC 2.0 must deliver jobs.....
02/07/2026

CPEC gave Balochistan roads and power. CPEC 2.0 must deliver jobs.....

In 2015, Balochistan had power outages lasting 16 to 18 hours daily, according to provincial records at the time, roads that petered out into gravel

President Balochistan Economic Forum, Sardar Shoukat Popalzai, extends his warmest felicitations to His Majesty King Cha...
01/07/2026

President Balochistan Economic Forum, Sardar Shoukat Popalzai, extends his warmest felicitations to His Majesty King Charles III, Prime Minister Mark Carney, and the friendly people of Canada on the joyous occasion of Canada Day.

He conveys his sincere best wishes for Canada's continued peace, prosperity, and progress, and for the enduring friendship between Pakistan and Canada.

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