Govt. of Pakistan

Pakistan Horticulture Development & Export Company
Ministry of Commerce, Govt. of Pakistan

phdec-logosmall
Workshops

Workshop on Importance of value addition of Potato

In an effort to create opportunities for growers and exporters of potato in Pakistan, PHDEC organized a workshop to highlight the importance of value addition and to connect growers with traditional export markets.Trade and Investment Officers from key traditional markets, including Afghanistan, Malaysia, Qatar and SriLanka, joined virtually, offering profound insights on import dynamics.PHDEC plans to send a delegation of potato growers in the above focused markets in January, 2024.

Read More
Webinars

Exploring the Export Prospects and Opportunities of White Onions in the Chinese Market

Today marked a milestone as PHDEC hosted a webinar on “Exploring the Export Prospects and Opportunities of White Onions in the Chinese Market”! Guiding our growers and farmers towards success, the webinar delved into effective farming practices for optimal white onion production and high yield. Processors, progressive growers, R&D enthusiasts, and entrepreneurs nationwide tuned in for this enriching session. Professor Dr. Tanveer Fatima, Director of the Office of Research, Innovation, and Commercialization at Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam, shared invaluable insights on crop management, biotic factors, and the promising prospects of white onions in China and other importing countries. Approved varieties with notable characteristics were also on the agenda. The session wasn’t just informative; it was interactive! A lively Q&A segment engaged the audience, providing a platform for growers, farmers, and industry professionals to voice their queries and opinions. We’re thrilled to report substantial participation from all corners—growers/farmers, R&D professionals, entrepreneurs, and academia—all coming together to appreciate PHDEC’s commitment to fostering knowledge and growth in the agricultural sector. Here’s to a future of flourishing horticulture exports and empowered farmers! #PHDEC #Webinar #Agriculture #Innovation #White #Onions #Export #Opportunities

Read More
Workshops

Workshop on Cherry Industry in Pakistan

On the 7th of November 2023, Pakistan Horticulture Development & Export Company (PHDEC), under the auspices of Ministry of Commerce and Trade Development Authority of Pakistan Government of Pakistan, took a momentous step towards enhancing the cherry industry in Pakistan. This event focused on cherry production and the challenges associated with the value chain, aiming to boost cherry exports to China. Pakistan is the 49th largest cherry producer globally with significant cherry clusters mainly in Gilgit-Baltistan and Baluchistan. In 2022, China imported a whopping 367,000 tons of cherries valued at $2.77 billion, demonstrating the immense potential in this endeavor. The primary objective of the training workshop was to enlighten stakeholders about the promising prospects within the cherry sector and to encourage more cherry farmers to join the ranks of registered orchards. Additionally, the workshop aimed to educate farmers on the adoption of sound agricultural practices that can significantly increase production and fruit size, especially for renowned varieties like black cherries. PHDEC brought in expert speakers to shed light on these critical issues. Dr. Mubarak Ali, Consultant from the Agro Division of Trade Development Authority of Pakistan, emphasized the importance of quality germplasm and the introduction of new cherry varieties. Good agricultural practices and the development of a robust value chain were also highlighted as essential elements for success. Mr. Athar Hussain Khokhar, CEO of PHDEC, expressed his appreciation for the active participation of the audience. He also shared a crucial point of pride – Pakistan’s cherries are grown with pristine glacier-sourced waters, without the use of harmful fertilizers or pesticides. Let’s work together to further developPakistan’s cherry industry and make the most of this exciting opportunity to export cherries to China! Stay tuned for more updates, and let’s continue to cultivate success in the world of horticulture!

Read More
Workshops

Revolutionizing the Chili industry and enhancing Pakistan’s standing as a major producer and exporter of red Chilies worldwide

Pakistan Horticulture Development & Export Company hosted a ground-breaking workshop on November 02, 2023 in Umarkot, Sindh, aimed at revolutionizing the Chili industry and enhancing Pakistan’s standing as a major producer and exporter of red Chilies worldwide. Sindh Province, particularly the remarkable Kunri district has cemented its position as one of Asia’s primary hubs for red Chili production. However, the challenge of aflatoxin contamination has been a significant roadblock on the path to global market success. To address this crucial issue, PHDEC organized this workshop where experts from the National Agricultural Research Center (NARC), Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC) and Dr. Mubarak shared invaluable insights on reducing aflatoxins in red Chilies. But that’s not all! We were honored to have Mr. Ghulam Qadir, Trade and Investment Officer, join us via Zoom to shed light on the Chinese market and the recent protocol signed between Pakistan and China on Chilies. This partnership opens up new avenues for our Chili industry and the prospects are better than ever! Let’s make “Made in Pakistan” Chilies a global sensation!

Read More
Webinars

Effective Pesticide Usage to Address MRLs Challenges in Red Chili Farming

Webinar on “Effective Pesticide Usage to Address MRLs Challenges in Red Chili Farming”. In recent years, Pakistan’s red chili export industry has been facing a decline due to concerns regarding Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) and Aflatoxins. Understanding the gravity of this situation, PHDEC took the matter seriously and organized an insightful webinar on the subject. Experts from The National Agriculture Research Center (NARC) shared invaluable insights on pesticide management techniques to tackle MRL-related issues in Red Chilies. We are thrilled to report that a large number of participants from various sectors including growers, processors, exporters, R&D, and academia enthusiastically joined the webinar. They commended PHDEC for its proactive approach in addressing the critical issue of Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs). This webinar serves as a testament to the dedication of the Pakistani agricultural community in upholding quality standards and ensuring the prosperity of our red chili #industry. Let’s work together towards a brighter, more successful future for our #horticulture sector.

Read More
Workshops

PHDEC Stakeholder Consultation with Malaysian and Pakistani Stakeholders

Pakistan Horticulture Development & Export Company & Trade Development Authority of Pakistan’s Agro Wings, in a dynamic collaboration with the Pakistan High Commission Malaysia, orchestrated a highly successful B2B rendezvous, uniting champions of fruits and vegetables trade from #Malaysia and #Pakistan! The driving force behind this gathering? The recent game-changing development of India imposing a whopping 40% duty on its onion exports. Nine enthusiastic exporters from Pakistan joined forces with seven discerning importers of fruits and vegetables, accompanied by the distinguished representatives of the Pakistan Malaysia Business Council. Together, they set the stage for an eventful and promising session. PHDEC, with its wealth of knowledge and expertise, presented an enlightening overview of Pakistani #onion, #potatoes, and #maize, providing vital production and export statistics. The outcome? A remarkably productive and fruitful session that holds great promise for the future!  In a final note of optimism, we ensured the exchange of contact details between our passionate stakeholders from both sides, paving the way for exciting future collaborations and fruitful negotiations.

Read More
Webinars

Opportunities in Value-Addition of Grape Products

Webinar Spotlight;Tuesday, September 26, 2023, Pakistan Horticulture Development & Export Company marked a significant milestone by hosting a webinar on the topic “Opportunities in Value-Addition of Grape Products.”The primary objective of this enlightening session was to empower growers, farmers, and processors with knowledge on the potential of value addition in the grape industry, with a keen focus on reducing post-harvest losses – a crucial aspect for the economic growth of our nation.Dr. Javed Tareen, an eminent figure and Technical Member of the Chief Minister’s Inspection Team, Government of Balochistan, took center stage to provide a comprehensive presentation. His insights were nothing short of invaluable, covering topics ranging from the nutritional composition of grapes, production hubs within Pakistan, therapeutic properties inherent in grapes, challenges faced in grape cultivation and processing, global perspectives on grape value addition, and the untapped potential for value-added grape products within Pakistan.What truly made this event exceptional was the overwhelming participation of our esteemed audience – a diverse blend of current and prospective growers, farmers, researchers, entrepreneurs, and academia. Their presence added immense value to this initiative, underscoring the collective commitment to the growth and prosperity of Pakistan’s horticulture sector.At PHDEC, we are dedicated to driving positive change and fostering innovation within Pakistan’s agriculture landscape. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all participants for their active engagement and unwavering support.Stay tuned for more exciting developments on this journey!

Read More
Webinars

Good Agricultural Practices of Citrus

Exciting Update: Unleashing the Secrets of Citrus Orchard Management!On this beautiful day, PHDEC (Pakistan Horticulture Development and Export Company) held a captivating webinar titled, “Good Agricultural Practices of Citrus.”Our mission was crystal clear: To unite the minds and hearts of stakeholders, cultivating a collective understanding of the vital Citrus Orchard Management for Good Quality and Yield.The expert of this enlightening session was Mr. Malik Abdul Rehman from the Citrus Research Institute in Sargodha.With immense knowledge and passion, he painted a vivid picture of citrus orchard management, focusing on the intricate details of fruit development, the battle against insects and disease, and the art of nutrition management.Participants eagerly submitted their burning questions, and Mr. Rehman, with his expertise, left no stone unturned.This webinar wasn’t just a gathering of enthusiasts; it was a melting pot of talents and expertise. From seasoned growers to innovative processors, the globe-trotting exporters, the inquisitive researchers, and the brilliant minds of academia from Pakistan – all came together to enrich this insightful event.So, what did the participants take away from today’s webinar? A deeper appreciation for the citrus fruits we enjoy, a wealth of knowledge on how to nurture them, and a network of passionate individuals eager to take citrus cultivation to new heights!

Read More
Webinars

Apple Harvesting and post-harvestig

Did you know that the secret to premium quality apples lies in the way they are harvested and handled? Tuesday, September 12, 2023, PHDEC hosted a groundbreaking webinar that brought together apple growers, processors, exporters, researchers, and academia to discuss the ins and outs of harvesting, postharvest handling, transportation, loading, unloading, and storage. Our goal? To minimize postharvest losses and ensure the availability of top-notch apples both locally and in high-end markets!Apples are more delicate than you might think, and mishandling during harvesting and packaging can make or break their quality. That’s why we’ve chosen this critical window from early July to late November to educate apple farmers, growers, and key farm workers on the best practices. Dr. Muhammad Javed Tareen, a Technical Member of the Chief Minister’s Inspection Team, Govt of Balochistan, shared invaluable insights into recommended harvesting, postharvest handling, and packing techniques.We were thrilled to see a massive turnout of passionate participants who all appreciated our initiative in addressing this crucial aspect of post-harvest management.But the excitement doesn’t stop there! Participants also suggested that we take our efforts a step further by organizing physical activities to benefit all stakeholders. Stay tuned for more exciting updates on that front!

Read More