November 12, 2008	Wednesday	Ziqa'ad 13, 1429

HYDERABAD, Nov 11: The Trade Development Authority organised a workshop at a local hotel to provide information to exporters about the possibility of introducing Pakistani goods in European countries, particularly Germany.

About 50 male and female exporters of mango, chillies, glass bangles and handicrafts of Hala attended the workshop.

Dr Feroze Alam Junejo, commercial consulate in Pakistan embassy in Frankfurt, Germany, dwelt on the possibility of introducing Pakistani goods in German market. Germany had a developed market, he said and added that mango and other fruits and vegetables, textile products and handicrafts of Hala could be exported to that country.

He said that the per capita income of a German citizen was more than $31,000 and they were always looking for quality items. However, he cautioned the exporters that the German people were extremely conscious of their health and they only went for healthy and quality goods. He also urged the exporters to ensure that they exported goods in attractive packing.

Imported goods in Germany were tested in laboratories and the import of substandard goods was banned in that country, Mr Junejo said.

He advised the producers of Ajrak to use fast colours and avoid chemical colours which were injurious to human health.

He said that the price of a Pakistani mango in Germany was two Euros and added that the export of mango to Germany could fetch huge foreign exchange.

In Germany more than 68 per cent of trade transaction were finalised on internet and therefore exporters should use internet for trade agreements, Mr Junejo said.

TDA Director General for Sindh and Balochistan Basheer Ahmed Shaikh said that their foreign envoys would provide feedback on Pakistani exports and bottlenecks would be removed.