Pakistan Horticulture Development & Export Company
Ministry of Commerce, Govt. of Pakistan
Webinars
Chilgoza Pine Forests: Restoration for Ecosystems and Improved Livelihood of Mountain Farming Communities in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB)
- by admin
- October 24, 2024
Today, PHDEC successfully conducted a webinar titled “Chilgoza Pine Forests: Restoration for Ecosystems and Improved Livelihood of Mountain Farming Communities in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB).” The session featured Mr. Hasil Khan as the presenter, with key insights provided by Mr. Niamat Ullah, Research Fellow at PARC-MARC Gilgit, who shared his expertise on the local supply chain of Chilgoza pine nuts.Dr. Tetsuro Hosaka from Hiroshima University Japan also shared his views on one of the costiliest produce from Pakistan appreciating PHDEC for this initiative.The webinar primarily focused on the challenges and opportunities associated with restoring Chilgoza pine forests and improving the local supply chain in Gilgit-Baltistan. The Chilgoza pine (Pinus gerardiana) is a vital resource for the region’s ecological health and a key source of livelihood for mountain farming communities. However, the Chilgoza pine nut supply chain faces several challenges, including deforestation, poor storage facilities, limited market access, and high transportation costs due to inadequate infrastructure.The webinar underscored the importance of forest conservation and reforestation initiatives to ensure the long-term sustainability of Chilgoza pine forests. The integration of sustainable practices within the supply chain, along with support from the government and market players, will not only restore ecological balance but also boost the livelihoods of mountain farming communities in Gilgit-Baltistan.
Workshops
Banana Pre-Harvest, Harvest, Post-Harvest Handling, Processing, Packaging, Storage, and Reefer Transportation
- by admin
- October 24, 2024
Today (22nd Oct, 2024), PHDEC conducted a workshop on “Banana Pre-Harvest, Harvest, Post-Harvest Handling, Processing, Packaging, Storage, and Reefer Transportation” in collaboration with Lasbela University of Agriculture, Water and Marine Sciences in the Uthal region of Balochistan. PHDEC aimed to educate banana growers in Uthal on the critical aspects of banana harvest and post-harvest management. Banana is grown on approximately 90,000 acres in Pakistan, with the Uthal region contributing around 26% of the total cultivation. Major export destinations for Pakistani bananas include Iran, Afghanistan, and, to a lesser extent, Central Asian Republics (CARs). There is significant potential to increase exports to CARs, provided the cosmetic appeal, quality and packaging of the fruit is improved.Experts from various organizations provided valuable insights on producing high-quality bananas, including best practices for harvesting, post-harvest handling, processing, packaging, storage, and transportation. Growers were informed about key factors that impact both yield and quality. The importance of maintaining optimal storage temperatures to preserve fruit quality was also highlighted.The National Logistics Cell (NLC) presented their reefer transportation services for shipping bananas from Pakistan to CARs, while a representative from the Department of Plant Protection (DPP) explained the regulatory requirements of importing countries and how to comply with them.Growers were also informed about the tissue culture plants of banana, its impotence for producing good quality and high yield of banana fruit. A complete guidance right from the germplasm/nursery to end consumer was given to the banana growers.Growers expressed their appreciation for PHDEC’s initiative and requested that such workshops continue, as many were previously unfamiliar with this essential information.
Webinars
Green Defence: Microbial Biofungicides for Food Security and Sustainable Horticulture
- by admin
- October 17, 2024
Today at 11 am, PHDEC conducted a webinar on “Green Defence: Microbial Biofungicides for Food Security and Sustainable Horticulture” aimed to address growing challenges of food security in the context of rising global populations and the need for sustainable agricultural practices.Dr. Zulqarnain provided a comprehensive overview of how plant diseases, which account for up to 40% of crop losses globally, are a significant threat to food production. The discussion centered on the rising use of microbial biofungicides—derived from natural organisms like bacteria and fungi—as a sustainable alternative to synthetic fungicides. These biofungicides offer multiple advantages, including reduced toxicity, minimal environmental impact, and lower risk of resistance development among pathogens.The session concluded with an emphasis on integrating biofungicides into Pakistan’s horticultural sector to meet growing food demands, highlighting the potential for research partnerships and policy advocacy. A large number of stakeholders including growers, farmers, processors, academia, R&D and general people participated in the webinar.
Harvest and Post-harvest Management of Chillies
- by admin
- October 11, 2024
Today (October 10, 2024), PHDEC successfully conducted a webinar on “Harvest and Post-harvest Management of Chillies.”Pakistan ranks as the 4th largest chilli producer globally, with an annual output of 143,000 tonnes over 150,000 acres. Sindh alone produces 126,000 tonnes, contributing approximately 88% of the country’s total chilli production. This dominance presents significant potential for value-added chilli products.Chillies are highly sensitive to improper handling, particularly during harvesting and post-harvesting processes, which can directly affect quality and yield. Recognizing this, PHDEC organized the webinar to educate chilli farmers, growers, and key farm workers on best practices for managing harvest and post-harvest operations.The event saw a large turnout, with participants from across the farming community, processors, exporters, researchers, and academia. Attendees expressed their appreciation for PHDEC’s timely initiative in addressing this crucial topic.
Seminars
Export of GB Cherries to China: LessonsLearned, Future Strategies & PHDEC Project on Development of High-DemandCherry Varieties
- by admin
- October 8, 2024
PHDEC Hosts Seminar in Gilgit on Cherry Exports to China: A LandmarkMilestone and Future StrategiesGilgit, 3rd October 2024 – The Pakistan Horticulture Development & ExportCompany (PHDEC), under the Ministry of Commerce, Government of Pakistan,successfully held a one-day seminar titled “Export of GB Cherries to China: LessonsLearned, Future Strategies & PHDEC Project on Development of High-DemandCherry Varieties” at Avari Xpress Gilgit. The seminar, held on 3rd October 2024,brought together a diverse group of stakeholders including farmers, exporters,processors, researchers, representatives from academia, the Chambers ofCommerce and Industry, government departments, and business supportorganizations from Gilgit-Baltistan (GB).The event marked a historic achievement for Pakistan, celebrating the successfulexport of the first-ever consignment of cherries from GB to China. The milestone,seen as a breakthrough in the region’s horticultural sector, highlights the exportpotential of GB cherries and sets the stage for future growth.PHDEC’s CEO opened the event by welcoming participants and reaffirming PHDEC’sunwavering commitment to supporting the horticulture sector in Gilgit-Baltistan.He emphasized that following the success of the first cherry exports to China,PHDEC is now embarking on a new project to develop high-demand cherry varietiesthat will further enhance Pakistan’s position in the global market.Presentations were made by key experts including Mr. Iqbal Hussain from theAgriculture Department, Mr. Nazir Ali from the Trade Development Authority ofPakistan (TDAP), and exporters Mr. Faisal Mir and Mr. Arman Shah, as well asfarmers’ representatives, Mr. Chirag and Usman. The discussions focused on thesuccess of the initial exports, lessons learned, and future strategies for scaling upproduction and improving the supply chain.Mr. Faisal Mir reflected on the lessons learned from the first export initiative,expressing optimism that with continued dedication, GB could achieve an exporttarget of 100,000 tonnes of cherries by 2030. Mr. Arman Shah provided a detailedoverview of the cherry supply chain, while Mr. Nazir Ali highlighted the joint effortsof PHDEC, TDAP, NLC, DPP, M/s Hashwan Traders, and local departments thatcontributed to the success of the project.Dr. Mubarak Ahmed, Consultant for the Agro Division at TDAP, shared his insightson the export potential of GB cherries, noting the enthusiasm within the sector andthe commitment of various departments to support horticultural growth in theregion. Sector expert, Mr. Zulfiqar Ali Ghazi, addressed the need for improvedcoordination among departments to fully capitalize on GB’s cherry exportpotential.The event concluded with closing remarks from Brig (R) Saleem Mahmood of GreenPakistan, who praised the agricultural heritage of GB, where nearly everyhousehold owns fruit trees. He expressed confidence that with continueddedication to agriculture, GB will achieve its goals and foster the prosperityenvisioned for the region.A notable highlight of the event was the strong participation of women farmers,processors, and traders, reflecting the inclusive nature of the horticulture sector inGB.The seminar not only celebrated the success of the cherry exports but also pavedthe way for future collaborations and strategies to strengthen Pakistan’shorticultural exports, particularly in high-demand international markets like China.
Workshops
Unlocking the Potential: Avocado Cultivation Techniques and Future Opportunities
- by admin
- October 3, 2024
Pakistan Horticulture Development and Export Company (PHDEC) hosted a webinar on the topic of ‘Unlocking the Potential: Avocado Cultivation Techniques and Future Opportunities’. Avocado, also known as butter fruit, has become a popular superfood in recent years due to its numerous health benefits. Rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, avocado has become a staple in many kitchens around the world. The global avocado market size was valued at USD 14.85 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.3% from 2024 to 2030. In Pakistan, avocado has also gained popularity in recent years, but many growers & potential exporters still have questions about where to find avocado plants, how to grow them, and where to export in international markets. The fruit is primarily cultivated in regions with a subtropical or tropical climate, making it suitable for various parts of the country. Recognizing the successful production prospects of avocado in Pakistan and export opportunities from Pakistan, Pakistan Horticulture Development and Export Company (PHDEC) organized a webinar on the topic of “Unlocking the Potential: Avocado Cultivation Techniques and Future Opportunities. The objective of the webinar was to guide farmers & exporters about production technology & potential markets of avocado. Mr. Syed Zia Ul Hasan, Principal Scientist Horticulture, Hill Fruit Research Station, Murree, stated thatPakistan’s subtropical or tropical climate and fertile soils make it an ideal location for the cultivation of Avocado fruit, a unique and exotic tropical fruit. While explaining about varieties, he added that California Long, Ceylon Blue, Silver Gola & Murree Gola are suitable varieties for Pakistani climate. He explained that Avocado thrives in warm, tropical climates with moderate temperatures ranging from -05°C to 40°C. It prefers well-drained, nutrient-rich soil with a slightly acidic pH between 6.0 and 7.0. The plant is drought-tolerant but requires consistent moisture for optimal fruit production. He further added that with proper cultivation techniques and management, Avocado fruit cultivation can be seamlessly incorporated into existing farming systems, diversifying agricultural production and increasing yields for Pakistani growers. Mr. Syed Zia Ul Hasan, recommended that sustainable agronomic practices, such as integrated pest management and organic fertilization, ensures the long-term viability and environmental compatibility of Avocado cultivation. While, burgeoning local demand and emerging export potential provide Pakistani Avocado fruit farmers with ample avenues to profitably market their high-quality, exotic produce. A large number of participants from growers, exporters, R&D and academia participated in the webinar and appreciated the PHDEC’s initiative of conducting the webinar on an important topic of ‘Unlocking the Potential: Avocado Cultivation Techniques and Future Opportunities.
Workshops
Harvest, Postharvest Handling, Processing, Packaging, and Storage of Banana Fruit
- by admin
- October 2, 2024
On September 30, 2024, PHDEC concluded its Two-Day training workshop on “Harvest, Postharvest Handling, Processing, Packaging, and Storage of Banana Fruit.” The workshops were conducted at two different banana farms in the banana cluster of Tando Allahyar, aimed to train laborers and key farm workers involved in banana harvesting and postharvest handling.There is significant potential for exporting Pakistani bananas to CARs (Central Asian Republics) countries, but maintaining the required quality is essential for sustaining and expanding in these markets. Currently, Pakistani bananas are majorly exported to Iran and Afghanistan, with limited shipments to CARs. Increasing exports to CARs requires improving the cosmetic appeal of the fruit, which depends heavily on proper harvesting and handling practices.Recognizing the importance of laborers in preserving the quality and appearance of bananas, PHDEC organized these workshops to enhance the skills of farm workers, particularly those directly involved in the harvesting and postharvest processes. The workshops provided detailed presentations on topics such as growing high-quality bananas, as well as standard procedures for harvesting, processing, packing, and storage. Relevant pictures and videos were also shared to support the training.More than 400 banana laborers were trained during the two-day workshop, and the participants showed great enthusiasm in improving their skills.
