Pakistan bolsters hot water treatment to disinfect mangoes against pests, boost exports

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Updated 27 June 2024
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Pakistan bolsters hot water treatment to disinfect mangoes against pests, boost exports

  • Farmers blame climate change for parasites, extreme weather ruining much of this season’s crop
  • 40% of Pakistan’s mango exports undergo hot water treatment, with majority exported to EU, Iran

KARACHI: Pakistan is working to advance its hot water treatment facilities to disinfect mangoes from pests in a bid to boost exports, a Trade and Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) consultant said this week, as farmers blame climate change for the parasites and extreme weather ruining much of this season’s crop.
The All Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Exporters Association said in May there was a “significant reduction” in mango production for a third consecutive year due to climate change, which meant the country may not be able to meet its export targets. This year, the export target has been set at 100,000 metric tons, whereas last year the export target was 125,000 metric tons but only 100,000 metric tons could be exported, according to the Association.
Pakistan is the world’s fourth-largest mango producer and agriculture accounts for almost a quarter of its GDP. But Pakistani mangoes have faced export challenges in recent years due to concerns over pests and fruit flies that can threaten the agricultural standards of importing countries.
Hot water treatment, which involves immersing mangoes in hot water at a regulated temperature, is employed to eradicate pests without harming the fruit. The method not only ensures compliance with stringent international health and safety regulations but also preserves the fruit’s quality, extends its shelf life and maintains market competitiveness.
Dr. Mubarik Ahmed, a consultant with the Trade and Development Authority of Pakistan, said Pakistan started the hot water treatment of mangoes in 2014.
“In the same year, India was banned by the European Union … and they [the EU] warned us that they were going to place the same ban on Pakistan,” Ahmed said. “In order to avoid that, we made it mandatory that all the mangoes that went to the European Union will be hot water treated.”




In this photo, taken on June 24, 2024, workers assemble mangoes for a disinfectant process at the Mango Hot Water Treatment Plant in Karachi, ahead of its exports to extend the shelf life. (AN Photo)

Ahmed said Pakistan had expanded its HWT facilities from one in 2014 to 26 in 2024 to meet phytosanitary requirements, ensuring that around 40 percent of the country’s mango exports went through hot water treatment, with the majority exported to the EU and Iran.
“If we talk in terms of numbers, we generally export around 40,000 tons of mangoes to Iran and similarly we export between 9,000 to 11,000 tons to the European Union,” he said. “So, this is the benchmark. But last year we had a bad mango crop and the exports declined.”
Imran Segal, the owner of Orangzaib & Brothers Hot Water Treatment Plant, said HWT was a “simple procedure.”
“We bring the temperature of the water in the water tank to 48.5 degrees Celsius,” he explained. “When we pass the mangoes through this water for 60 minutes, any fruit flies or diseases in it [fruit] are eliminated.”
He said two breeds of Pakistani mangoes – Sindhri and Chaunsa – were hot water treated.
“Sindhri is the first to arrive in the market, coinciding with the start of the mango season, which means that it dominates the market in terms of quantity due to its high demand,” Segal added. “Meanwhile, Chaunsa is highly prized for its excellent taste in Punjab ... Overall, their [hot water treatment] share is evenly split at 50-50.”
“CLIMATE INFLUENCES”
Pakistan produces around 1.8 million metric tons of mangoes annually, of which 70 percent are produced in Punjab province, 29 percent in Sindh and one percent in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Pakistan’s 20 varieties of mangoes come second only to oranges as the most-produced fruit in the country.
Ahmed said environmental conditions in the Punjab and Sindh provinces were conducive to the rapid multiplication of fruit flies, emphasizing the necessity of control measures, especially during years with high pest infestations.
Progressive farmers used techniques like pheromone traps to manage the pest population but there was a need for the wider adoption of effective control methods, the consultant advised.
“The punch line is that climate influences pest intensity,” he said. “I think climate is influencing the pest complex and the disease pattern in mangoes, as a result of climatic changes there may be some new diseases or there may be some of the disease that already exists, will finish off. So, the research institutes are working on it and we hope that they come up with a concrete pattern.”




In this photo, taken on June 24, 2024, workers pack mangoes after a disinfectant process at the Mango Hot Water Treatment Plant in Karachi, ahead of its exports to extend the shelf life. (AN Photo)

In a statement in May, Waheed Ahmed, the patron-in-chief of the All Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Exporters Association, lamented a constant climate-induced decrease in mango yields.
“This year, due to weather effects, the production of mangoes in Punjab is 35-40 percent, while in Sindh it is less than 20 percent and thus the total production is feared to be reduced by 0.6 million metric tons,” Waheen said. 
“This estimate was made at the start of production and is likely to increase further as the season progresses.
“The effects of climate change have emerged as the biggest threat to mango production, which can well be gauged from the fact that mango production has declined for the third year in a row.”


Pakistan ruling coalition ally criticizes cyber law amendments, warns of threat to free speech

Updated 01 March 2025
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Pakistan ruling coalition ally criticizes cyber law amendments, warns of threat to free speech

  • Pakistan’s Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act is widely criticized as a tool to stifle dissent
  • PPP’s Raza Rabbani calls the PECA amendment bill ‘black law,’ says it can weaken the state

KARACHI: A senior Pakistani politician from a party supporting Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s ruling coalition on Saturday condemned the recent amendments to the country’s cyber laws, warning they would jeopardize freedom of speech and weaken the state.
Pakistan’s Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) was originally enacted in 2016, but an amendment bill passed in January 2025 expanded its scope by broadening the definition of “fake news” and criminalizing defamation against government officials.
The law also established a new social media regulatory authority to oversee digital content and a cybercrime agency with the power to prosecute violations.
Speaking at a convention related to the issue, Raza Rabbani of the Pakistan Peoples Party denounced the PECA amendments as a “black law,” asserting they would further restrict an already regulated digital space, especially for journalists.
“Trying to stop or restrict freedom of the press actually weakens the state. Freedom of expression is a fundamental right,” Rabbani said, highlighting the law’s “vague provisions on fake news” and other reforms that he warned could be easily manipulated.
He criticized the government for failing to consult stakeholders before enacting the amendments and urged an immediate suspension of the law’s implementation. Rabbani called for dialogue with journalists, civil society and other relevant groups to revise the legislation.
Barrister Salahuddin Ahmed, a legal expert, told the gathering the amendments undermined democratic principles by granting the government disproportionate power.
He also warned against the new authority mandated to take swift action against social media platforms during his speech.
“This authority is empowered to block platforms and remove content within 24 hours of a complaint being filed,” Ahmed said. “This gives an alarming level of unchecked power to a single body, which could easily be misused to stifle dissent.”
Sohail Afzal Khan, secretary of the Karachi Press Club, where the convention was held, echoed these concerns, arguing PECA was designed to suppress journalists rather than combat disinformation.
“If the government had been sincere in combating fake news, it would have enacted legislation in consultation with journalist leadership and other stakeholders. Instead, it seeks to suppress the voice of journalists,” Khan said.
The event was attended by representatives from major political parties, lawyers, rights activists and media workers, culminating in a resolution rejecting PECA 2025.
The resolution called for the removal of restrictions on free speech and an end to legal actions against journalists under the pretext of combating misinformation.
“The meeting resolves to continue its struggle against PECA and similar laws, within democratic frameworks, by collaborating with civil society and democratic forces,” it said.


PM Sharif highlights Palestinian and Kashmiri struggles as Ramadan begins in Pakistan

Updated 01 March 2025
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PM Sharif highlights Palestinian and Kashmiri struggles as Ramadan begins in Pakistan

  • The prime minister says it is time to strengthen Muslim unity and promote cooperation
  • He urges people to support financially disadvantaged segments during the holy month

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Saturday recalled the struggles of the Palestinian and Kashmiri people while urging greater unity among Muslim states, as Pakistan prepares to begin the holy month of Ramadan from tomorrow.
Pakistan’s central moon sighting committee announced a day earlier that the Ramadan crescent was not sighted anywhere in the country, confirming that the first day of fasting would fall on Sunday.
Observed by Muslims worldwide, the month is marked by fasting from dawn to sunset, which many consider a time for spiritual reflection, self-discipline and devotion.
Fasting is also seen as a way to strengthen faith and develop empathy for the less fortunate.
“We are grateful to Allah for once again blessing us with the holy month of Ramadan, a time of mercy, blessings, and forgiveness,” the prime minister was quoted as saying by his office in a statement.

Muslims offer the first Tarawih prayers to mark the start of the Islamic holy fasting month of Ramadan at the Memon Mosque in Karachi on March 1, 2025. (AFP)

“We must remember our Palestinian and Kashmiri brothers and sisters who continue to suffer oppression and raise our voices against this injustice,” he continued. “This is the time to strengthen Muslim unity and promote cooperation and brotherhood.”
Sharif also called on Pakistanis to support financially disadvantaged segments of society during the month, which places a strong emphasis on charity and social welfare.

People arrive to offer the first Tarawih prayers to mark the start of the Islamic holy fasting month of Ramadan at the Memon Mosque in Karachi on March 1, 2025. (AFP)

Ramadan holds special significance for Muslims, as it was during one of its nights that the first verses of the Qur’an were revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
The month is observed with increased prayer, charitable giving and community gatherings, culminating in the festival of Eid Al-Fitr.


Pakistan’s army chief inaugurates combat simulation center in Bahawalpur sector

Updated 01 March 2025
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Pakistan’s army chief inaugurates combat simulation center in Bahawalpur sector

  • General Munir interacts with officers and troops, commends their dedication and morale
  • The army chief also launches two other facilities focusing on IT and medical education

ISLAMABAD: Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir on Saturday inaugurated a combat simulation center and two other facilities focused on information technology and medical education during a visit to Bahawalpur, the military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), said in a statement.
The strategically important garrison town in southern Punjab plays a crucial role in Pakistan’s military readiness, particularly in the context of its nuclear-armed neighbor, India.
The area is home to the Bahawalpur Corps, a key formation responsible for border defense and rapid deployment, given its proximity to India’s Rajasthan state, which hosts major Indian military bases. Bahawalpur also serves as a logistics and training hub, with large-scale military drills focusing on different warfare scenarios.
ISPR said the army chief received a briefing on the operational preparedness and training aspects of the Bahawalpur Corps during the visit.
“COAS inaugurated the CMH Institute of Medical Sciences (CIMS), Innovista Cholistan and Integrated Combat Simulator Arena, pioneering initiatives aimed at advancing medical education, information technology and combat readiness,” it added
During his visit to CIMS, General Munir engaged with students from various universities, emphasizing the army’s role in nurturing young talent. He urged students to pursue academic excellence and develop the skills necessary for national development, reaffirming the army’s commitment to empowering youth
Earlier, the army chief was received by the Commander of Bahawalpur Corps and addressed officers and troops, commending their dedication and high morale.
He stressed that rigorous training remains the cornerstone of a soldier’s professional development, adding that it is essential for meeting the challenges of modern warfare.


Pakistan’s internet industry body seeks reforms amid digital connectivity crisis

Updated 01 March 2025
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Pakistan’s internet industry body seeks reforms amid digital connectivity crisis

  • Internet service providers’ association says only two operators are controlling Pakistan’s digital connectivity
  • It seeks a second internet gateway in Gwadar, asks regulators to negotiate bandwidth in local currency

KARACHI: Pakistan’s ongoing internet crisis, marked by soaring costs and sluggish speeds, stems from structural issues in which two operators control the gateway to global connectivity, the country’s internet service providers’ association said this week.

Pakistan is heavily reliant on digital connectivity for economic growth. However, the Wireless and Internet Service Providers Association of Pakistan (WISPAP) said in a statement users were getting an average speed of just 20-30 megabits per second (Mbps), which was significantly lower than that of countries like Bangladesh in the region where speeds reach 50 Mbps, despite Pakistanis paying nearly twice as much for the service.

WISPAP warned against the “near-duopoly” of Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) and Transworld Associates (TWA), saying it had led to monopolistic pricing, restricting competition and keeping internet services expensive and inefficient.

Its assertion comes as Africa-1, a new undersea cable system, recently landed in Pakistan, promising additional bandwidth, though the association said it would only benefit the two existing gatekeepers of global connectivity.

“Ban gatekeepers from overcharging or locking out rivals,” the statement prepared on Tuesday quoted Shahzad Arshad, WISPAP chairman, as saying. “Fair rules mean fair rates.”

Pakistan’s internet infrastructure is centered around Karachi, where PTCL and TWA manage the country’s seven undersea fiber-optic cable connections and two smaller overland links.

Arshad noted the lack of competition allows these operators to set high prices for bandwidth, which internet service providers (ISPs) must purchase before distributing internet services to consumers.

WISPAP also proposed policy recommendations, including creating a second internet gateway in Gwadar, saying it would reduce broadband costs by 30 percent in five years.

“Invite new operators, local or foreign, with tax breaks,” its chairman suggested. “PTCL and TWA will have to fight for customers, not just cash them out.”

Additionally, the group urged regulators to follow Malaysia’s model of negotiating bandwidth in local currency, shielding ISPs from volatile exchange rates.

“Cut the dollar leash, and ISPs save 20% overnight,” Arshad said. “That’s cheaper Wi-Fi for every household.”

Pakistan’s internet crisis has far-reaching consequences for businesses, impacting sectors such as e-commerce, fintech and freelancing. The country’s freelance industry, which generated $1.2 billion in 2024, is particularly vulnerable to unreliable connectivity.

WISPAP estimates that affordable, high-speed internet could double freelancing revenue to $2.5 billion by 2030, while also bringing 10 million more Pakistanis online.


Pakistan Navy ship participates in UAE defense exhibition to bolster maritime ties

Updated 01 March 2025
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Pakistan Navy ship participates in UAE defense exhibition to bolster maritime ties

  • The UAE event features naval vessels from eight nations and participation from 65 countries
  • PNS Yarmouk has carried out joint exercises with the UAE Navy’s ship Al Emarat, ISPR says

KARACHI: A Pakistan Navy ship is participating in an international defense exhibition in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) as part of efforts to strengthen maritime relations with the Gulf nation, the military’s media wing said on Saturday.
The Pakistan Navy ship Yarmouk arrived in the UAE for the International Defense Exhibition (IDEX) and the Naval Defense Exhibition (NAVDEX 25), the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement.
Several high-profile officials, including the UAE’s minister for tolerance and the defense ministers of Romania and Yemen, visited the vessel.
“Participation in the defense exhibition reflects Pakistan’s strong defense ties with the UAE and its active role in global maritime security initiatives,” the ISPR said.

This handout photo shows UAE Tolerance and Coexistance Minister Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan onboard Pakistan Navy Ship Yarmook during International Defense Exhibition (IDEX) & Naval Defense Exhibition (NAVDEX) in Abu Dhabi, UAE. (Photo courtesy: Handout/Pakistan Navy)

Pakistan has intensified its naval diplomacy in the region and beyond in recent years, particularly with Gulf nations, as part of efforts to enhance maritime security and defense collaboration.
The growing engagement aligns with Islamabad’s broader strategy of maintaining stability in regional waters and securing trade routes amid evolving geopolitical dynamics.
The UAE event, which features naval vessels from eight nations and participation from 65 countries, comes weeks after Pakistan hosted the AMAN-25 multinational exercise, where 60 countries took part in maritime drills aimed at enhancing interoperability and regional security.

In this handout photo, released on February 28, 2025, Pakistan Navy official briefs visitors onboard Pakistan Navy Ship Yarmook during International Defense Exhibition (IDEX) & Naval Defense Exhibition (NAVDEX) in Abu Dhabi, UAE. (Photo courtesy: Handout/Pakistan Navy)

Following AMAN-25, Pakistan and Saudi Arabia conducted the Affaa Al Sahil bilateral naval exercise, which concluded in Karachi last month with a demonstration of firepower and combat tactics.
During its visit to the UAE, PNS Yarmouk also carried out joint exercises with the UAE Navy’s ship Al Emarat.