Pakistan has great potential for exporting fruits and vegetables, but most of the nation lacks an adequate logistics infrastructure and difficulties in international shipments lead to high trade costs. “These challenges reduce the competitiveness of Pakistan's fruits and vegetables in the international market,” said a report of Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP).
The TDAP report highlighted detrimental effects of underdeveloped cold chain systems. This deficiency results in significant physical and quality losses for perishable fresh fruits and vegetables. A robust cold chain infrastructure is essential for ensuring safe transportation of these products from farms to packing houses, processing plants, and eventually export exit points.
The report stated that inefficient technology and machinery are prevalent in existing cold storage units. The absence of adequate warehouse and cold storage facilities at major border points creates a serious obstacle, causing most fresh produce to be sold in local markets and discarded quickly.
Source: nation.com.pk
