From July 25th to July 30th, Zhou Zongshan and Cong Jialin, experts from Institute of Pomology (IP, CAAS), visited Sindh Agriculture University and its Umerkote campus in Pakistan. The visit aimed to advance the "Modern Fruit Industry Poverty Alleviation Demonstration Orchard Construction in South Asia" project, funded by the Asia Cooperation/APEC. The goal is to cooperate with Pakistan in the development and demonstration of high value-added modern orchards.

During their visit, the IPCAAS experts conducted a comprehensive survey of Pakistan’s fruit industry. They met with the presidents of two agricultural universities, Fateh and Jan, gaining a deep understanding of the strengths and needs of local fruit sector. Additionally, they investigated local fruit varieties, cultivation models, and plant protection methods.

Currently, Pakistan's fruit cultivation technology has significant room for improvement, particularly in modern management practices, as natural growth remains the prevalent method. The demonstration orchard project faces challenges such as difficulties in technology promotion and low acceptance among farmers. With the assistance of Sindh Agriculture University, IPCAAS experts provided technical guidance on various aspects of the demonstration orchard, training over 600 local agricultural practitioners.

The visit yielded substantial results, advancing the implementation of the China-South Asia Development Cooperation Dialogue Mechanism and injecting new vitality into the construction of the modern fruit demonstration orchard in South Asia. The visit disseminated modern agricultural concepts, promoted advanced pomology management techniques, and showcased China's expertise and technical advantages in fruit production. Multiple consensuses were reached between China and Pakistan on the modernization of the fruit industry, laying a solid foundation for future cooperation. The visit was reported by the Associated Press of Pakistan and several television stations, and newspapers.

By: Cong Jialin

(congjialin@caas.cn)