International exhibition: Pakistani fruit exporters pluck orders worth $2m

Country’s pavilion at Fruit Logistics visited by delegates of 30 countries

KARACHI: Pakistani growers and exporters of fresh fruits and vegetables participating in the ‘Fruit Logistica 2017’ have received an estimated import order of $2 million.

The import order is expected to increase as response at the event was very encouraging, said Standing Committee of Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) Chairman on Fruit and Vegetable Exports Waheed Ahmed.

At least 40 delegates from 16 fruit-exporting firms attended and displayed their products at the event, one of the most important business and communication arena of international fresh produce trade that is organised in Germany.

Opportunity beckons: Eying to tap the Russian fruit, vegetable market

The participation of 10 companies was organised by Pakistan Fruit and Vegetables Exporters, Importers and Merchant Association (PFVA) while 6 firms had attended the show under the umbrella of the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP).

The Pakistani pavilion visited by delegates of 30 countries including the UK, Norway, Spain, Italy, China, Malaysia, South Korea, Russia, and the UAE. It was inaugurated by Pakistan’s Ambassador in Germany Johar Saleem, according to a statement released by PFVA.

Oranges and lemons: Two-day fruit and vegetable exhibition kicks off

Ahmed stressed on focusing on the production of quality fruit in order to meet international standards. He added that India, in the same show this year, pocketed at least $15 million worth of import orders compared with $2 million received by Pakistan because the former produces comparatively better products.

A modern technology ‘Sky Detect’ introduced by European countries during the show was the centre of attraction at Logistica, he said, adding that the same technology could be used to minimise the effect of climate change in Pakistan.

King of fruits: Mango exhibition opens in Rahim Yar Khan

PFVA officials say the country can immediately raise its horticulture exports to $1 billion with a little government support.

Horticulture exports amounted to $641 million in 2015-16 when Pakistan exported a record number of fruit and vegetable varieties, according to data collected by the PFVA.