Poor post harvest management restrains horticulture

Monday, July 30, 2012 - Islamabad—The growth and profitability of horticulture sector is restrained in the country mainly by lack of poor post harvest management and transport infrastructure.

According to an official horticulture sector contributes about 12 per cent to the national agricultural GDP of Pakistan, and holds great potential for increasing export of quality horticultural produce, and offering multiple employment opportunities throughout the supply chain.

Out of 13.67 million tones of fruits and vegetables produced annually, about 25 per cent goes waste, between farms to consumers, while only 4 per cent is exported at far lower price 41 per cent compared to world average price.

The official said improving post harvest management infrastructure (grading, packing, storage and transport/cold-chain) will help reduce high post harvest losses, increase production surplus along with improving shelf life and quality of fresh produce, which will help to stabilize prices in domestic markets as well as to substantially boost export to highly lucrative and competitive international markets.