Export of the King

This refers to the news report ‘Rahimyar Khan to have mango research centre’ (Apr 6), This is a laudable effort made by the authorities concerned in light of the meagre exports of six percent which the country is currently making. It is expected that a research centre will be equipped with the latest testing and preservation techniques. It is suggested that similar research centres in different fruit-growing areas of Pakistan should be established so that it can be ensured that other fruit including apricots, bananas, melons, and peach, can be exported conforming to international standards. This can pave way for the much-needed foreign exchange to meet the country’s essential needs.

There is an important aspect of packaging which must be given due importance as improper packaging can perish the fruit before they reach destination. The relevant ministry must be assigned this task of ensuring quality checks and shipments. In the past, one of Pakistan’s largest export items, kinnos were returned on the pretext that the fruit had seeds while the requirement asked for seedless kinnos. This was an embarrassing position for Pakistan to be in and should be avoided in the future. We can suggest that frequent exhibitions must be held so that growers from all over Pakistan can participate for their seasonal fruit production. Proper stickers should be pasted on fruit for the satisfaction of consumers abroad. If we succeed in implementing the above suggestions, sufficient foreign exchange can be fetched for depleting foreign exchange reserves.

Engr Riaz Akbar

Wah Cantt