On May 15, 2025, the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) organized a seminar in Vehari titled “Improving Maize Export Quality through Khapra Beetle and Aflatoxin Control Measures.” Moderated by Ms. Hina Tahir, Deputy Director of TDAP’s Agri and Food Division, the event united maize growers, exporters, experts, and international trade representatives to tackle challenges impacting Pakistan’s maize exports, particularly in major markets like Vietnam and Malaysia.
Mr. Athar Hussain Khokhar, Director General of TDAP’s Agri and Food Division, opened the seminar by highlighting the need to address Khapra beetle infestations and aflatoxin contamination, which have caused export rejections. He emphasized collaborative efforts to protect Pakistan’s $324 million maize export market, driven by 1.42 million tons in 2023-24, and its role in contributing 3% to agricultural value-added products.
Technical sessions offered practical solutions. Mr. Muhammad Saeed from the Maize & Millets Research Institute shared methods to control Khapra beetles, such as using proper storage bags and fumigation to prevent pest damage. Dr. Mubarik Ahmad, TDAP Consultant, discussed aflatoxin risks from molds, recommending timely harvesting, drying, and storage in cool, ventilated spaces to meet global safety standards, like the EU’s 4 ppb limit for aflatoxins in food.
International perspectives underscored compliance with export regulations. Ms. Faiza Shafqat,Trade & Investment Attaché in Vietnam, outlined requirements for Vietnam, Pakistan’s top maize buyer, importing $164.6 million worth in 2023-24. Dr. Khalid Zafar from the Department of Plant Protection explained certification processes to ensure pest-free shipments. Malaysian trade representatives stressed aligning with international standards to access high-value markets.
Dr. Muhammad Ramzan Asi, Director of Pest Warning & Quality Control of Pesticides, highlighted training programs to equip farmers with pest control skills, while Mr. Muhammad Ijaz, Deputy Director of Agri Extension, shared modern farming techniques to boost maize quality and yield, which reached 9.5 million tons in 2024-25. Mr. Muhammad Usman, Former Senior Vice President of the Vehari Chamber of Commerce and Industry, closed the event by praising TDAP’s initiatives and calling for continued partnerships to meet global demand. The seminar reaffirmed TDAP’s dedication to enhancing maize exports through education and collaboration, strengthening Pakistan’s position in the $62.87 billion global maize market.
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