Govt. of Pakistan

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

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Webinars

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

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.

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Webinars

Export Potential of Newly Developed Peas Varieties in KPK

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.

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Webinars

Cultivation Techniques, Export Opportunities, and Potential of Elite Dates

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.

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Webinars

Improving Banana Fruit Quality through Farm Management Techniques

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.

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Webinars

Harvest and Post-harvest management of chillies in Pakistan

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!

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Webinars

Floriculture Sector in Pakistan: Issues, Challenges & Export Opportunities

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.

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Webinars

Enhancements in White Onion Through Good Agricultural Practices and Its Nutritional Benefits

Today, (December 28, 2023) PHDEC hosted a webinar titled “Enhancements in White Onion Through Good Agricultural Practices and Its Nutritional Benefits.” The aim was to guide growers/farmers in adopting effective farming practices for optimal white onion production and high yield. The webinar targeted processors, progressive growers, R&D, and entrepreneurs nationwide.Madam Mehvish Tahir, Scientific Officer, Vegetable Research Institute, Ayub Agriculture Research Institute, Faisalabad, presented on crucial topics such as crop management, biotic factors, and prospects of white onions in China and other importing countries. The webinar was arranged in the wake of recent protocol signed with Chinese government on export of white onion to chinese market. In the next session of webinar, Trade Missions at China will be invited to highlight potential of the market and price offered by the competitors.

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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

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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.

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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!

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