Sunday, May 12, 2024
Beijing (Urdu Point Newspaper Latest - Online. May 12, 2024) China's annual production of edible mushrooms has reached more than 40 million tons, with a total value of more than 300 billion RMB, which is about 80% of the world's production. Yes, China has advanced mushroom cultivation techniques and a strong supply chain, it can improve Pakistan's mushroom sector. According to Gwadar Pro, Associate Professor of Agriculture University Faisalabad (UAF) Dr. Muhammad Muzamil Jahangir, who holds a PhD from Rijiang University, China and has been a leading researcher in the field of mushroom production, processing and storage, discussed the possibilities of strengthening cooperation with China to increase mushroom exports. shed light.
According to Gwadar Pro “Pakistan's abundant agricultural resources and favorable climatic conditions make it an important location for mushroom cultivation.
With focus on quality, diversity, sustainable production methods and international cooperation, Pakistani mushrooms are poised to gain further gains in the international market, said Dr Muhammad Muzamil Jahangir in a recent interview with Gwadar Pro.
According to Gwadar Pro, the nutritional value, health benefits and economic utility of mushrooms, especially the button and oyster varieties, are the key factors for increasing export of mushrooms. In recent years, Pakistan has successfully exported mushrooms to countries including France, China, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United Arab Emirates, Spain, Oman, Mozambique and Malaysia among others. According to the World Bank, Pakistan's exports during 2019 to 2021 are about 6 million dollars, which indicates a promising start.
According to Gwadar Pro, Dr Muzamil Jahangir pointed out that despite this, Pakistan's actual export volume in the mushroom industry is still relatively low compared to established exporters such as China, the Netherlands and Poland. He added that Pakistani exporters face competition in terms of prices, quality and market access. The country's mushroom exports have not reached their full potential due to lack of technology and market access.
According to Gwadar Pro, China is one of the world's largest consumers and producers of mushrooms, with annual production of edible mushrooms reaching more than 40 million tons, with a total value of more than 300 billion RMB. Which is about 80% of the world's production. The associate professor believes that as a major exporter, China has advanced mushroom cultivation techniques and a strong supply chain that can improve Pakistan's mushroom sector.
By exchanging best practices and engaging in joint research and development initiatives, both countries can benefit from this mutually beneficial partnership. According to Gwadar Pro, in the context of agriculture and food processing, Pakistan and China have signed agreements and initiatives to enhance bilateral trade, technology transfer and agricultural development.
Dr. Muzamil Jahangir highlighted that it is possible that joint initiatives or exchanges in agriculture between the two countries could directly or indirectly benefit the mushroom industry. According to Gwadar Pro, he also suggested setting up special research and innovation centers for mushroom cultivation, processing and value addition in Pakistan. "Through these centers, both parties can advance sustainable mushroom production and contribute to environmental protection, economic development and social welfare," he said.
