The Board of Administrators of Export Development Fund (EDF) on Friday approved in principle the establishment of cotton ginning research and training institute at Multan.
The 34th meeting of the board, held here with Commerce Minister Humayun Akhtar Khan in chair, was also attended by secretary commerce Tasneem Noorani, chairman Export Promotion Bureau Tariq Ikram.
It was decided to have an effective feasibility and work programme for the institute and Smeda will help in finalising the feasibility report. The management would be looked after by the EPB, Smeda, textile commissioner and Ginners Association.
The board was of the view that improvement in ginning would contribute significantly in improving the quality in the whole cotton chain. The institute will also be encouraged to develop schemes for creating awareness for contamination-free cotton.
Moreover, the board approved engagement of two consultants for carrying out a feasibility study for the establishment of hall-marking system and assessing office at Karachi. This integrated system would significantly help in the promotion of jewellery in Pakistan.