South Korea gives green light to Pakistan mangoes
A team of experts arrived in Pakistan to inspect the Hot Water Treatment plants in Karachi, but Multan and Lahore areas must also be on board with the same facility.
"The South Korean government has not put any condition on the processing of mangoes under vapour heat treatment plant, which is a very expensive process and not fully available in Pakistan and we welcome this kind gesture," said Azam Ishaque.
The South Korean government just requires the mangoes to undergo hot water treatment, which is cheaper and more easily available in Pakistan. The South Korean mango market could be worth millions of dollars for Pakistani exporters subject to the PHDEC starting to with work this market immediately.
“This is great news for Pakistan this year as last year Japan lifted the ban of Pakistani mangoes,” he said.
"Similarly the Japanese government has already approved the quality of Pakistani mangoes which are superior in taste and aroma and have the potential of giving tough competition to Indian mangoes which are already there in that market. According to Harvest Tradings, we immediately need at least two huge VHT plants of a minimum capacity of 50 tons each, one at Karachi and the other at Lahore from the Government."
Azam Ishaque mentioned, although it is Pakistan Horticulture Development and Export Company's (PHDEC's) responsibility to provide these facilities to enhance exports, the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) is taking more interest in having VHT plants installed as soon as possible.
Pakistan mangoes could only be exported to Japan in 2013 season as the present season is already half way through.
For more information:
Ashfaq Ahmed
Harvest Tradings
Ashfaq.memon@harvesttradings.com
www.harvesttradings.com