Webinars

Optimizing Apple Fruit Quality through Recommended Harvesting and Post-Harvest Management Techniques

• by admin
• June 6, 2024

Webinar on “Optimizing Apple Fruit Quality through Recommended Harvesting and Post-Harvest Management Techniques” aimed to reduce post-harvest losses and ensure top-notch quality Pakistani apples for both domestic and International markets.Did you know? The apple harvest season kicks off in early June and runs until the end of November. With apples being highly sensitive to mishandling, it’s crucial to implement proper harvesting techniques. Identifying this gap, PHDEC proactively organized this webinar to equip apple farmers, growers and key farm workers with essential knowledge well ahead of the peak season.We were thrilled to see a fantastic turnout, with enthusiastic participation from growers, processors, exporters, R&D professionals, and academia. The session was brimming with valuable insights, and we appreciate the positive feedback from all attendees.PHDEC is committed to continuing such interactive sessions to elevate Pakistan’s horticulture industry. Stay tuned for more initiatives aimed at fostering growth and excellence in our agricultural practices!

Webinars

Papaya: Production Technology, Management and Export Potentials

• by admin
• May 23, 2024

Pakistan Horticulture Development & Export Company (PHDEC) successfully conducted a webinar titled “Papaya: Production Technology, Management and Export Potentials.” This session aimed to explore the vast opportunities that papaya cultivation presents for Pakistan’s horticulture sector.The webinar was attended by large number of people including growers, processors, researchers, and stakeholders from the horticulture sector. The introductory remarks highlighted the significance of diversifying Pakistan’s horticulture basket with papaya, a tropical fruit renowned for its high nutritional value and market potential.The session featured insightful presentations from leading experts in the field, Ms. Amina Alvi from AARI Faisalabad. The discussions covered various aspects of papaya cultivation including best practices and advanced techniques for optimal production and yield. The speaker also highlighted the effective methods for managing papaya crops addressing different pests and diseases. The session also covered the information on possible strategies in future to meet international standards for export of papaya from Pakistan.The webinar saw active participation from a diverse audience, including growers, processors, R&D professionals, and academia. Attendees engaged in lively discussions, asked pertinent questions, and shared their experiences and insights.The webinar concluded on a positive note, with participants expressing their appreciation for the valuable information shared. The session emphasized the need for continued collaboration and innovation to harness the full potential of papaya cultivation in Pakistan.

Webinars

The Impact of Climate Change on Horticulture Crops in KPK and Way Forward

• by admin
• May 16, 2024

PHDEC concluded an informative webinar on “The Impact of Climate Change on Horticulture Crops in KPK and Way Forward” The event witnessed a large and diverse audience reflecting the widespread interest and concern regarding the implications of climate change.The webinar was taking cognizance from the recent findings of a joint study by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the World Bank (WB), wherein it was emphasized that Pakistan could face economic losses of up to US$3.8 billion annually due to climate change with temperatures projected to rise by up to 2.5 degrees Celsius in the next 20 years.Dr. Ibrar Hussain, from ARI Tarnab, Peshawar, delivered the keynote address providing an in-depth analysis of the specific impacts of climate change on horticulture crops in KPK. He outlined the primary risks, including unpredictable rainfall patterns, increased droughts, higher temperatures, and more frequent severe weather events, all of which contribute to crop failures and animal losses.Following Dr. Hussain’s presentation, the audience shared their views and opinions on the topic by asking questions from different experts for their better understanding of the phenomenon of climate change.While concluding, CEO, PHDEC reiterated the organization’s commitment to supporting the horticulture sector through continuous engagement, capacity building, and the implementation of innovative solutions. The CEO expressed gratitude to all participants, speakers, and panelists for their valuable contributions and emphasized the importance of collective action in mitigating the impacts of climate change on horticulture in KPK.

Webinars

Unlocking the Potential: Dragon Fruit Cultivation Techniques and Future Opportunities

• by admin
• May 8, 2024

Dragon fruit farming has become increasingly popular in Pakistan due to its adaptability to diverse climates and soil. The fruit is primarily cultivated in regions with a subtropical or tropical #climate, making it suitable for various parts of the country.Recognizing the increased production of dragon fruit in Pakistan and export opportunities from Pakistan to chinese market, PHDEC organized a webinar on “Unlocking the Potential: Dragon Fruit Cultivation Techniques and Future Opportunities”. The objective was to guide farmers about its production technology.Mr. Sajid Iqbal Sindhu, Director General (Punjab), Agri Tourism Development Corporation of Pakistan, stated that Pakistan’s warm climate and fertile soils make it an ideal location for the cultivation of dragon fruit. He further recommended that sustainable agronomic practices, such as integrated pest management and organic fertilization, ensures long-term viability and environmental compatibility of dragon fruit cultivation.

Webinars

Managing Quality Issues in Potato Exports to Global Markets: Focus on to Address the Green Potatoes and Black Heart Disease

• by admin
• April 23, 2024

Today (23rd April, 2024), PHDEC conducted the webinar on the topic of “Managing Quality Issues in Potato Exports to Global Markets: Focus on to Address the Green Potatoes and Black Heart Disease”. The aim of the webinar was to bring the maximum of the stakeholders on board to discuss the issue of “The Green Potatoes and Black Heart Disease” which was highlighted in Potato Market Intelligence Report 2024 by Trade Wing Embassy of Pakistan, Moscow, Russian Federation. Due to said disease the supply of Pakistani potatoes to Russia during 8 months of financial year 2023-2024 decreased by 68.61%, whereas in value terms the supply dropped by 75.22% as compared to 2022-2023. Dr. Khalid Farooq, Seed Potato Expert, Korea Program on International Agricultural (KOPIA, Pakistan) explained the causes, spread, effect and management of the disease and suitable remedial measures.A large number of progressive growers/farmers, exporters, R&D, entrepreneurs and academia participated in the webinar and valued the PHDEC’s initiative.

Webinars

Export Potential of Newly Developed Peas Varieties in KPK

• by admin
• March 28, 2024

Pakistan Horticulture Development & Export Company (PHDEC) hosted a webinar today titled “Export potential and growth prospects of newly developed peas varieties in KPK,” aimed at enlightening growers, processors, and exporters on the potential of newly developed peas varieties in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). The webinar highlighted the importance of the horticulture sector in Pakistan, particularly in KP, where districts like Khyber, Nowshera, Kohat, Bajaur, and Swabi are known for green peas production.Pakistan produces around 400,000 tons of peas annually, yet the export of peas is limited. The Pakistani diaspora in the Middle East are major buyers, with export destinations primarily including Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, and UAE. Recent data indicates a significant increase in Pakistan’s pea exports, prompting PHDEC to organize the webinar to educate stakeholders on maximizing export potential.Mr. Muhammad Ali Daudzai, Senior Research Officer from ARI Tarnab, was the key speaker, discussing how new pea varieties can contribute to increasing exports of peas from Pakistan. CEO of PHDEC, Mr. Athar Hussain Khokhar, reiterated PHDEC’s commitment to uplifting the horticulture sector, announcing plans for field visits, workshops, and seminars, especially in Newly Merged Districts (NMDs), to provide opportunities for farmers and exporters in these areas.The webinar served as a platform for industry stakeholders to gain valuable insights and explore avenues for enhancing the export of peas, ultimately contributing to the growth and prosperity of the horticulture sector in Pakistan.

Webinars

Cultivation Techniques, Export Opportunities, and Potential of Elite Dates

• by admin
• March 15, 2024

Today, March 11, 2024, PHDEC hosted a webinar focusing on the intriguing topic of “Cultivation Techniques, Export Opportunities, and Potential of Elite Dates.” aimed to empower our valued farmers with the knowledge of advanced farming practices essential for ensuring optimal crop production and the cultivation of top-quality dates, leading to high yields.During the session, attendees had the opportunity to delve deeper into approved varieties of dates, understanding their salient characteristics, and engage in an interactive Q&A segment, fostering valuable insights and discussions.Thank you all for your active involvement and support in making this webinar a resounding success! Stay tuned for more enriching events from PHDEC as we continue our journey towards fostering excellence in horticulture and beyond.

Webinars

Improving Banana Fruit Quality through Farm Management Techniques

• by admin
• February 14, 2024

February 14, 2024, PHDEC spearheaded a webinar focusing on “Improving Banana Fruit Quality through Farm Management Techniques.”The aim was crystal clear: to empower our growers/farmers with knowledge and insights into effective farming practices, particularly disease and pest control strategies, essential for enhancing crop quality and boosting exports of our beloved bananas!Dr. Abdul Mubeen Lodhi, from Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam delved into crucial aspects of banana orchard management: from soil quality to irrigation techniques, from combating biotic challenges to tackling dreaded diseases like Panama wilt and banana bunchy top virus. He further shed light on approved banana varieties with their distinct characteristics, paving way for informed decisions in banana cultivation.The turnout was overwhelming! Growers/farmers, researchers, entrepreneurs, and academia alike, all came together to embrace this initiative by PHDEC, recognizing its significance in transforming our agricultural landscape of Pakistan.

Webinars

Harvest and Post-harvest management of chillies in Pakistan

• by admin
• January 19, 2024

Today, PHDEC took a much needed step towards boosting Chilli production in Pakistan. The webinar delved into the intricacies of harvest and post-harvest management of chillies in Pakistan. The goal? To unite stakeholders for a comprehensive discussion on minimizing post-harvest losses and ensuring top-notch quality Chillies for both domestic and International markets.As we’re in the midst of Chilli harvesting (ongoing until March), it’s crucial to handle it with care to guarantee premium quality. Recognizing the sensitivity, farmers and relevant stakeholders were educated on enhancing both quality and quantity. The response was phenomenal, with participants from growers, processors, exporters, R&D and academia applauding this initiative.PHDEC is committed to enhancing Chilli production, ensuring excellence from farm to market. Stay tuned for more updates on our endeavors!

Webinars

Floriculture Sector in Pakistan: Issues, Challenges & Export Opportunities

• by admin
• January 11, 2024

Webinar on “Floriculture Sector in Pakistan: Issues, Challenges & Export Opportunities” aimed to provide guidance to progressive farmers and potential exporters on the lacunas of exporting fresh or dried flowers from Pakistan. Director Floriculture (Training and Research) from Agriculture Department Punjab, shed light on critical issues such as the availability of appropriate facilities for harvest and post-harvest management, inadequate storage facilities, outdated methods in processing/packing and the non-availability of cold chain facilities. He further emphasized the continued development of exports for high-quality flowers and bulbs into overseas markets with a special focus on roses for oil extraction. We at PHDEC extend a heartfelt thank you to the guest speaker and all participants who made this a success! Your enthusiasm and commitment to the growth of the floriculture sector in Pakistan are truly commendable.