PHDEC Certification: Initiative Boosts Gilgit-Baltistan Horticulture Export Readiness
Awareness session at Karakoram International University highlights certification standards to improve quality, market access and export competitiveness.
Participants attend the PHDEC Certification awareness session at Karakoram International University in Gilgit.
PHDEC Certification took centre stage at an awareness session held at Karakoram International University (KIU) in Gilgit on Wednesday. The event aimed to help horticulture stakeholders understand international certification standards and strengthen the export potential of Gilgit-Baltistan’s horticulture sector.
The Pakistan Horticulture Development & Export Company (PHDEC) organised the session in collaboration with the Gilgit Chamber of Commerce and Karakoram International University (KIU). The initiative supports compliance with international quality standards and prepares local producers for global markets.
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Dr. Sartaj Ali, Associate Professor at KIU’s Department of Agriculture and Food Technology, explained the importance of GlobalGAP, HACCP, and ISO 22000 certifications. He said these standards improve regulatory compliance, build buyer confidence, and strengthen brand reputation. He added that certification also helps exporters enter high-value international markets that demand quality assurance and product traceability.
PHDEC Project Manager Hamza Nasir and Khawar Nadeem presented the Certification Support Initiative. They outlined the project’s scope, eligibility criteria, and cost-sharing model. The speakers also answered questions about the application process, certification bodies, consultancy services, and implementation procedures.
Representing the farming community, Zulfiqar Ali Ghazi welcomed the initiative and encouraged growers to adopt modern farming practices and international production standards. He said these measures can improve product quality, reduce post-harvest losses, and increase competitiveness in local and global markets.
PHDEC Horticulture Consultant Dr. Azeem highlighted the connection between certification, quality improvement, and export growth. He urged producers and exporters to take advantage of the programme to expand their access to premium international markets.
Closing the session, Athar Hussain said Pakistan exports many horticulture products to low-value markets despite strong demand in premium destinations. He noted that certification can help exporters enter niche markets, increase value addition, and improve export earnings across the horticulture sector.
