A network of accredited testing laboratories for the purpose of exporting fruits, vegetables and other agricultural commodities to global markets at international standard is dire need of the hours, said Professor Dr Bashir Ahmad, Vice Chancellor, University of Agriculture, Faisalabad (UAF).
Talking to 3-member delegation of Pakistan Kinnow Processors and Exporters Association here on Wednesday, he said that due to lack of awareness and illiteracy, our farmers are not following international standards set by WTO, which of course is a major hurdle to export our produce to world markets. He added that water pollution, heavy amount of pesticides without proper consultancy and other factors are creating problems for export.
The VC directed the UAF researchers to make recommendations regarding setting up of accredited laboratories for the testing of fruits, vegetables and agricultural produce. He formed a committee comprising of scientists from various departments to provide technical assistance to the farming communities in this regard.
Haji Muhammad Azam, chairman, Kinnow Processors and Exporters Association highlighted the problems faced by farming and exporting communities for the purpose of grading, sampling and packing at international standards.
Amjad Nisar Chief Executive, National Fruit Processing Bhalwal, Shaid Sultan CE, Zahid Kinnow Factory Bhalwal, Professor Dr Abdul Ghafoor, Director Research, Professor Dr Muhammad Ashfaq, Chairman Department of Entomology, Professor Dr Aman Ullah Malik and Babar Bajwa, representative of Pakistan Horticultural Export Board, Lahore were also present on the occasion.
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