Today (12-12-2024), PHDEC organized a workshop on Potato in Okara, Pakistan’s major potato-producing hub. The workshop covered crucial topics, including Harvest, Post-harvest Handling, Processing and Storage of Potato. 

Potato is Pakistan’s most significant crop, with an annual production of about 8.3 million metric tons. Proper harvest and post-harvest handling are critical to preserving potato quality for export, as mishandling can lead to quality deterioration and reduced yields.

Trade missions of potential countries were invited to share the market insght and sps requirements along with the buyers preferences.

Trade missions from major importing countries were invited via Zoom to share market insights from their respective regions. These included:

Dr. Kauser Ali Zaidi, Trade & Investment Minister, Kabul, Afghanistan, 

Ms. Sadia Khan, Trande & Investment Counselor, Jeddah, KSA, 

Ms.Serrein Asad, Trade & Investment Attache, Doha, Qatar,

Ms. Tahira Javed, Trade & Investment Counselor, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia &  

Mr. Zain Aziz, Trade & Investment Attaché, Dhaka, Bangladesh,

In addition, the key issue discussed was the management of smog’s after effects, with experts from the Potato Research Institute, Okara providing in-depth guidance. The session was attended by prominent growers, processors, and exporters.

Given the ongoing Potato export season, which runs until April, stakeholders were invited to receive timely guidance. Experts emphasized the need for special care and management of smog-affected potato crop and shared best agricultural practices for post-harvest handling. Trade missions also provided valuable market insights.

Participants appreciated PHDEC’s efforts in sector development and its timely interventions to support the Potato industry.