Workshops

Unlocking the Potential: Avocado Cultivation Techniques and Future Opportunities

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.

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Workshops

Harvest, Postharvest Handling, Processing, Packaging, and Storage of Banana Fruit

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.

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Workshops

Good Agricultural Practices of Blood Red Citrus Orchards

Today, PHDEC hosted a One-Day Training Workshop on “Good Agricultural Practices of Blood Red Citrus Orchards” in collaboration with Model Farm Services Center Nowshera!Growers from across #KhyberPakhtunkhwa gathered at Al-Yahya Fruit Farms to enhance their knowledge and skills in Red Blood citrus cultivation.Highlights include insights from industry experts like Mr. Raheel Abbas and Mr. Nisar Naeem, addressing challenges and offering solutions to boost production with the aim of strengthening ties with local growers.PHDEC’s regional office in KP reaffirms its commitment to supporting the horticulture sector in the region. The workshop further emphasized practical techniques tailored to local conditions, such as those shared by Mr. Tahir Badshah and Dr. Irshad from Fauji Fertilizer Company Limited, ensuring maximum yield and quality.PHDEC remains steadfast in its mission to empower growers, foster collaboration, and unlock the export potential of horticultural products in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Together, let’s cultivate success!

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Workshops

Workshop on Exploring export potential, cultivation practices of White Onion in Mailsi

We’re thrilled to announce the successful conclusion of our workshop on “Exploring Export Potential, Cultivation Practices and Future Outlook of White Onion” arranged in Mailsi.With the recent opening of China’s market for white onions from Pakistan, this workshop couldn’t have come at a better time!Highlights of the Workshop:👉 Guidance for growers on cultivating white onions for export to China👉 Insightful sessions led by experts from Ayub Agriculture Research Institute (AARI), Agriculture Extension Department & University of Agriculture Faisalabad👉 Discussions on Good Agriculture Practices, Insect/Pest Management, and Post-harvest TechniquesThe event was attended by processors, growers, exporters, research and development experts and private companies, all eager to seize this incredible opportunity.A special shoutout to Mr. Ghulam Qadir, Pakistan Embassy China for shedding light on Pakistan’s immense export potential in Chinese market.Kudos to the progressive growers from district Vehari, Punjab, whose participation significantly contributes to our nation’s onion production.Let’s harness this newfound opportunity and propel Pakistan’s agriculture sector to greater heights!

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Workshops

Banana workshop with Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam

We are thrilled to share highlights from the Banana workshop held with the joint efforts of Pakistan Horticulture Development & Export Company & Trade Development Authority of Pakistan in collaboration with Sindh Agriculture University, Tandojam. The current year has witnessed a staggering $60 million in Banana exports! Interestingly, around $40 million comprises of unaccounted exports to #Iran. The primary goal of the workshop was to shed light on the untapped potential of Central Asian Republics (CARs) market. Additionally, the event aimed to showcase the exceptional facilities provided by the National Logistics Cell – Official whose representative shared detailed information on the procedures and the routes followed by the agency. Distinguished representatives from Pakistan Embassy Kazakhstan, Pakistan Embassy Uzbekistan, Pakistan Embassy Tajikistan and Pakistan Embassy Azerbaijan graced us with their presence, delivering comprehensive presentations on the immense potential of their respective markets, invaluable for our industry’s growth and expansion. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of this workshop. Your participation and insights have set the stage for a prosperous future for the Banana export industry.

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Workshops

Workshop on Dates in Sukkur

PHDEC organized a pivotal workshop in Sukkur on Thursday, December 07, 2023, addressing challenges in Pakistan’s date fruit industry. As the 6th largest producer and 8th largest exporter, sub-optimal practices have affected our prices globally.In a collaborative effort, trade officers from Pakistan Commercial Sections including Ms. Amna Naeem from Pakistan Embassy Germany, Mr. Ghulam Mustafa from Pakistan Embassy Sweden, Mr. Zain Aziz, from Pakistan High Commission Bangladesh and Mr. Amjad Parvaiz (a leading Pakistani-origin businessman in the UK), emphasized the role of effective marketing in boosting date fruit exports. They provided market insights and highlighted opportunities for our exporters in their respective host countries.This workshop signifies a crucial step towards revitalizing and repositioning Pakistan’s date industry on the global stage. Let’s join hands in fostering innovation, excellence and sustainable growth in our thriving date fruit sector.

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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.

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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!

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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!

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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.

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