ISLAMABAD: The Punjab government has disclosed Rs. A $1.5 billion investment plan to modernize and revitalize the citrus industry which represents the cornerstone of Pakistani horticultural exports.
This initiative comes in the wake of detailed recommendations issued by the Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Exporters Association (PFVA) to address the challenges faced by the sector.
The citrus industry transformation project aims to establish disease-free citrus nurseries capable of producing one million plants annually, import new citrus varieties to diversify production, and establish high-density experimental orchards equipped with advanced irrigation systems.
Additional measures include introducing mobile soil and water testing units and leasing large areas of land to investors to develop modern orchards.
The PFVA Roadmap underscores the urgent need to address the impacts of climate change by adopting modern agricultural practices and growing resilient citrus varieties.
Waheed Ahmed, General Patron of PFVA, noted, “The citrus industry is Pakistan’s largest horticultural export, but faces severe risks due to climate change and outdated varieties.
This transformative initiative by the Punjab government stems directly from the recommendations of the PFVA.
Key features of the project also include establishing accredited private sector service providers to manage specialty orchards and launching a Citrus Quality Leadership Program to encourage farmers to produce fruit for export, enhancing Pakistan’s global competitiveness.
The state-of-the-art pesticide residue testing laboratory, developed in collaboration with international partners, will ensure compliance with global export standards.
In addition, a comprehensive international market research study will identify trends and opportunities to boost Pakistani citrus exports.
A PFVA delegation headed by Waheed Ahmed is scheduled to meet on Friday with the Punjab Province Agriculture Minister and Agriculture Minister to discuss the implementation of the project.
“This major investment demonstrates the Punjab government’s commitment to protecting the future of the citrus industry and mitigating the effects of climate change on this vital sector,” Ahmed noted.
This initiative is expected to rejuvenate Pakistan’s citrus industry, enhance its global position in horticultural exports, and ensure sustainable economic and environmental growth.