HYDERABAD   -  The Pakistan Horticulture Development and Export Company (PHDEC) has planned to distribute banana bunch bags to progressive banana growers in Sindh on Thursday, June 13, 2024, in Hyderabad. This initiative aims to enhance the quality and cosmetic appeal of banana fruit, facilitating its export to high-end markets.

Pakistan is a major producer of bananas, cultivating the fruit across approximately 33 thousand hectares. Despite this extensive production, banana exports have been primarily limited to Iran and CARs countries due to issues with the quality and cosmetic appeal of the fruit. Sindh province plays a pivotal role in this sector, encompassing 93% of the banana cultivation area and 83% of the total production. The region’s soil and climatic conditions are ideal for successful banana cultivation.

Improving the cosmetic appeal and overall quality of bananas can significantly enhance Pakistan’s ability to export the fruit to more lucrative markets. The distribution of banana bunch bags by PHDEC is a strategic step in this direction. PHDEC has been continuously working to develop Pakistan’s horticulture sector, focusing on enhancing exports through the improvement of horticultural products. Last season, PHDEC distributed 150,000 mango bags to growers in Sindh and Punjab. These bags brought very positive results, significantly improving the quality and appearance of the mango fruit.

In conjunction with the distribution event, PHDEC will conduct an awareness seminar on bananas in collaboration with the Agriculture Research Department, Tandojam. The seminar will be held on June 13, 2024, at the auditorium hall of the Agriculture Department, Tandojam. Experts will guide banana growers on how to bag the bunches and manage them effectively. Additionally, the seminar will cover a detailed discussion on Panama disease, its symptoms, and control measures.

Athar Hussain Khokhar, CEO of PHDEC, envisions a robust horticulture sector in Pakistan that significantly contributes to the country’s export economy. He said, “Banana is fast growing export commodity. In current year, export of Banana has reached to $40 million, and it is expected that it will grow further. By continuing pilot projects like these and creating awareness among growers and farmers, we aim to enhance the quality and marketability of Pakistan’s fruits and vegetables, thereby boosting exports and getting premier price in the international market.”