Latest news with #PHDEC
Business Recorder
17-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
PHDEC's mango-bagging initiative boosts export opportunities
MULTAN: Pakistan Horticulture Development and Export Company (PHDEC) launched its Mango Bagging Pilot Project and hosted a Workshop on Mango Orchard Management in Jalalpur, Multan. Attended by exporters, progressive growers, and industry stakeholders, the event highlighted how mango bagging enhances fruit quality, meets international standards, and drives export growth. With Pakistan producing 1.8 million tons of mangoes annually but exporting only 7% due to quality issues, PHDEC's initiative empowers exporters to tap high-value global markets. The workshop, themed 'Mango Orchard Management During and After Fruit Harvest in the Context of Climate Change and Bagging Techniques' equipped exporters with insights to improve fruit marketability. Abdul Ghaffar Grewal, a mango expert, shared best practices for orchard management, emphasizing post-harvest pruning and nutrition to combat climate-induced stress. Dr Kashif from MNS-University of Agriculture, Multan, detailed bagging techniques, advising application at the marble stage for 40–45 days to ensure premium-quality fruit. These practices directly benefit exporters by producing mangoes that meet stringent buyer requirements, fetching higher prices. PHDEC's Mango Bagging Pilot Project, now in its third season, has transformed export prospects. By distributing mango bags and facilitating the procurement of one million bags, including imports from China, PHDEC has enabled exporters to deliver blemish-free, visually appealing mangoes. Bagged mangoes have consistently secured premium prices in over 40 countries, with exporters reporting increased demand. Athar Hussain Khokhar, CEO of PHDEC, noted, 'Bagging ensures compliance with international quality standards, opening doors to high-end markets and strengthening exporter profitability.' Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
03-05-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
PHDEC hosts training workshop to boost cherry exports to China
GILGIT-BALTISTAN: Pakistan Horticulture Development & Export Company (PHDEC) took a monumental step in the realm of horticulture by organizing a one-day training workshop focused on export-oriented outcomes of cherry nurseries project and associated value chain challenges. The event, which was held in Gilgit-Baltistan, emphasized the significance of enhancing cherry production and export opportunities in Pakistan, particularly to the thriving Chinese market. Pakistan ranked as the world's 49th largest cherry producer, boasts significant cherry clusters primarily located in the Gilgit-Baltistan and Balochistan regions. This initiative marks the initial phase of capitalizing on the tremendous potential for exporting cherries to China. In 2023, China imported approximately 350,000 tons of cherries, illustrating the immense opportunity that lies ahead. Over the years, cherry production in the region has witnessed substantial growth. In 2001, the total cherry production stood at 2,678 tons, a figure that has now escalated to a remarkable 8,000 tons, generating annual revenue of approximately Rs600-700 million. The primary objective of the training workshop was to enlighten stakeholders on the upcoming cherries nurseries project and importance of high yielding and export-oriented cherry varieties to boost exports. Additionally, the workshop aimed to educate farmers on the adoption of sound agricultural practices that can significantly increase production and fruit size. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
Business Recorder
28-04-2025
- Business
- Business Recorder
Mango cultivation: PHDEC hosts webinar to address climate change impacts
KARACHI: The Pakistan Horticulture Development and Export Company (PHDEC) conducted a pivotal webinar, engaging mango growers, processors, researchers, and industry stakeholders from Sindh and Punjab to tackle the escalating challenges of mango malformation and hopper infestations exacerbated by climate change. The virtual event addressed the prolonged winter season, delayed ripening, and emerging pest and disease issues impacting Pakistan's mango sector, which contributes approximately 1.8 million metric tons annually across 421,000 acres, primarily in Sindh and Punjab. The webinar aimed to equip growers with practical strategies for managing mango orchards under shifting climatic conditions, fostering resilience in Pakistan's horticulture industry. Targeted at progressive growers, processors, R&D professionals, entrepreneurs, and academia, the event underscored the urgent need to adapt to environmental changes to sustain Pakistan's position as the world's fifth-largest mango producer. Copyright Business Recorder, 2025
