SAHIWAL, PAKISTAN – August 13, 2025 – The Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) successfully concluded a series of seminars to prepare farmers and exporters for the lucrative Chinese maize market. Held on August 11 in Mailsi, August 12 in Okara, and culminating today in Sahiwal—the heart of Pakistan’s maize production—these seminars mark a pivotal step in leveraging the recently finalized maize export protocol between Pakistan and China.
China, the world’s largest maize importer, brought in 26.23 million metric tons of maize in 2023, valued at $9.01 billion. This protocol opens a transformative opportunity for Pakistan to boost agricultural exports and enhance foreign exchange earnings. The seminars equipped growers with critical knowledge to meet China’s stringent quality and compliance standards, fostering access to this high-value market.
Organized by TDAP in collaboration with the Punjab Agriculture Department, Department of Plant Protection (DPP), SGS Pakistan, and the National Collateral Management Company (NCMCL), the seminars provided comprehensive guidance on export processes, including registration with China’s General Administration of Customs (GACC) and DPP compliance. Experts emphasized effective aflatoxin management to control contamination from fungi like Aspergillusflavus and Aspergillusparasiticus, highlighting techniques such as drying maize to a moisture content of 12% or lower. Pest control measures, particularly for the quarantine pest Khapra beetle, were detailed, with a focus on Phosphine-based fumigation protocols.
Attendees also gained insights into the role of NCMCL’s accredited warehouses and electronic warehousing systems, which enhance traceability, preserve maize quality, and streamline storage operations. The use of Electronic Warehouse Receipts (EWRs) was highlighted as a tool to provide secure storage records and facilitate financing for export activities, empowering farmers and exporters to scale operations efficiently.
These initiatives underscore Pakistan’s commitment to capitalizing on its high-quality maize to meet Chinese market standards. By fostering collaboration among TDAP, DPP, and other stakeholders, the seminars position Pakistan’s agricultural sector for significant growth in global trade, strengthening its economic footprint on the world stage.
