Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan today urged the Pakistan Horticulture Development and Export Company (PHDEC) to intensify its efforts to boost the country’s horticulture sector through the implementation of value-addition and export-oriented strategies.
During a review meeting with PHDEC”s CEO Muhammad Naseer, the Minister commended the fruit bagging initiative, calling it a transformative move that has notably enhanced the quality and export competitiveness of fruits like mangoes, bananas, and guavas. He instructed the company to broaden this initiative to include other vital crops such as dates, grapes, and peaches.
Khan emphasised the importance of local manufacturing of fruit bagging materials to reduce dependency on imports. He suggested collaboration with the paper manufacturing industry, private sectors, and provincial governments to make the technology more accessible for farmers.
The PHDEC CEO revealed that the fruit bagging programme has been well-received in premium markets including Japan, China, South Korea, and the European Union, significantly improving the marketability of Pakistani fruits.
In addition, Khan praised PHDEC’s advancement in freeze-drying, spray-drying, and fruit dehydration technologies, which are seen as pivotal in producing high-quality, long-lasting products. These technologies are expected to bolster small-scale agro-processing businesses, create jobs, and boost export revenues.
The Minister called for the expansion of freeze-drying projects in Northern Pakistan and Balochistan, and for stronger ties with Chinese-supported value-addition initiatives.
PHDEC is also distributing solar tunnel dryers to chilli growers, aiming to reduce aflatoxin contamination and improve export quality.
Looking forward, Khan supported PHDEC’s plans to host provincial Horticulture Expos, introduce a subsidised certification programme for horticulture stakeholders, and enhance business-to-business interactions to fortify Pakistan’s horticultural value chains.
He also urged the Export-Import (EXIM) Bank of Pakistan to provide financial backing to cottage industries and small-scale processors, helping them to embrace modern technologies and expand their export capabilities.
Khan emphasised the need for greater involvement of PHDEC-supported enterprises in upcoming FoodAg exhibitions to enhance market access and networking opportunities.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to export-led growth, the Minister assured PHDEC of comprehensive support and stressed the importance of collaboration with provincial administrations, research bodies, and the private sector to fully exploit Pakistan’s horticultural export potential.