MoU Signed to Enhance Digital Trade Skills of Horticulture Exporters
The Pakistan Single Window (PSW) and the Pakistan Horticulture Development and Export Company (PHDEC) have formalized an agreement to strengthen the digital trade capabilities of horticulture exporters. This initiative is set to improve the practical use of digital systems in export processes for Pakistan’s horticulture sector.
Training and Capacity Building for Exporters
Under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), both organizations will organize a series of educational programs including training sessions, webinars, and workshops. These will focus on key areas such as PSW registration, system operation, handling required documentation, and understanding regulatory demands. The sessions are designed to help exporters integrate digital trade tools seamlessly into their everyday business activities.
PHDEC, operating under the Ministry of Commerce, will spearhead engagement with the horticulture sector to ensure exporters are equipped to independently manage their trade registrations and processes. The programs will also emphasize protection of business data, safeguarding sensitive commercial information.
Strategic Importance of Digital Readiness in Trade
PSW CEO Syed Aftab Haider highlighted that the effectiveness of digital infrastructure relies heavily on traders’ ability to make efficient use of it. Linking PSW’s trade facilitation strengths with sector-specific needs aims to enhance the sector’s export competitiveness through practical digital tools.
According to PHDEC CEO Muhammad Naseer, gaining proficiency in export procedures is crucial for entering international markets successfully. He remarked, “Our collaboration unites sector-specific knowledge and digital expertise to help exporters confidently overcome operational challenges.” The partnership will also provide a formal mechanism to identify obstacles to digital adoption within the sector and develop targeted solutions.
Collaborative Oversight and Implementation
A joint working group with equal representation from both organizations will be established to manage the program’s rollout, monitor progress, and evaluate results periodically. They will also offer ongoing advice related to PSW operational matters and explore opportunities for data sharing aligned with PSW’s Trade Data Sharing & Exchange Policy.
For Pakistan, a country with a significant agricultural export potential, this move toward digital integration can reduce delays, improve compliance, and open up smoother trade channels. Enabling exporters to handle their digital trade workflows independently boosts self-reliance and positions them better in competitive global markets.
