Umerkot, Sindh – June 2025 – The Pakistan Horticulture Development and Export Company (PHDEC) hosted a transformative workshop at the Arid Zone Research Center (AZRC), PARC, Umerkot, Sindh, focusing on the adoption of Solar Tunnel Dryers to produce high-quality, aflatoxin-free chilies and strengthen export potential. The event emphasized best agricultural practices, integrated pest management, and advanced drying technologies to tackle aflatoxin contamination, a leading cause of export rejections.
Following last year’s workshop, which pinpointed improper drying practices like open-field drying on bare soil as a key source of aflatoxin contamination, PHDEC collaborated with AZRC-PARC to initiate a pilot project for Solar Tunnel Dryers. Approved for Export Development Fund (EDF) funding in 2024, the project will distribute 34 solar dryers on a cost-sharing basis, with 80% funded by EDF and 20% by farmers. Implementation has started, with 15–20 units planned for distribution in 2025 and the remaining by June 2026. Applications from progressive chili growers are now being accepted.
The workshop shared updates on the solar dryer project, promoted clean drying techniques to prevent aflatoxin contamination at the source, and highlighted the critical need for proper harvest and post-harvest practices, as aflatoxins developed in the field cannot be eliminated. It also advocated for good agricultural practices, integrated pest management, proper pesticide use, pre-harvest intervals, seed treatment, nursery management, and safe handling protocols.
Solar Tunnel Dryers provide a controlled, hygienic drying environment, significantly reducing aflatoxin risks compared to traditional methods. By maintaining optimal temperature and moisture levels, these units ensure chilies meet international standards for maximum residue levels and aflatoxin content, securing premium prices in global markets. The technology also shortens drying time during peak harvest seasons, enhancing post-harvest efficiency and preserving chili quality.
Mr. WaseemKalroo, Senior Scientific Officer, AZRC, presented the project’s objectives, stating, “Solar Tunnel Dryers will revolutionize chili drying by producing aflatoxin-free, export-ready chilies. This initiative ensures quality, reduces rejections, and boosts farmers’ income.”
Athar Hussain Khokhar, CEO, PHDEC, emphasized alignment with global standards, saying, “International best practices in chili drying, as seen in India and Thailand, rely on controlled drying systems like solar or mechanical dryers to minimize contamination risks. By adopting Solar Tunnel Dryers, Pakistani farmers gain access to cutting-edge technology to compete in premium markets while addressing aflatoxin challenges. PHDEC is committed to providing training and market linkages to ensure success.”
Experts from AZRC, PARC, and SARC delivered technical presentations on chili production and post-harvest management. Dr. NajmusSahar, Senior Scientific Officer, FQSRI, SARC, Karachi, discussed pre- and post-harvest strategies to mitigate aflatoxin, including research into resistant chili varieties. Dr. Attaullah Khan, Senior Director, AZRC, Umerkot, addressed climate-resilient crop varieties and genetic research to improve productivity. Dr. Mubarik Ahmed, Consultant Agro, TDAP, highlighted contractual farming and pesticide registration to meet market standards. Dr. Zakir Hussain Dahri, Director General, PARC-SARC, Karachi, focused on pest and disease management under challenging climate conditions. Dr. Muhammad Azeem Khan, Consultant Agro, PHDEC, concluded by stressing the need for farmer training and tailored recommendations to optimize drying and enhance market access.
Stakeholders actively engaged, expressing gratitude for PHDEC’s timely initiative. PHDEC assured growers adopting these practices access to buyers through B2B meetings and trade missions abroad.
The introduction of Solar Tunnel Dryers marks a pivotal step toward producing high-quality, aflatoxin-free chilies, positioning Pakistan as a competitive player in the global chili market. PHDEC remains dedicated to supporting farmers through technology, training, and market linkages.
