Pakistan’s fruit, gemstone, and jewelry sectors contribute significantly to GDP and employment. However, these industries struggle to reach their full potential due to outdated technologies and practices leading to significant waste and quality compromises. The Thailand Productivity Institute (FTPI) hosted an individual-country observational study mission (IOSM) on Best Practices of Fruit, Gem, and Jewelry Industries, 3–7 July, in Bangkok to facilitate exchanges on policy, processing, waste-reduction technologies, and best practices to boost these sectors in Pakistan.

APO Director for Thailand, Dr. Nattapol Rangsitpol (5th L) with Pakistan’s Federal Minister for Industries and Production, Syed Murtaza Mahmud (6th L).

The mission, attended by six Pakistani delegates and led by Federal Minister for Industries and Production Syed Murtaza Mahmud, is expected to cultivate collaboration and business exchanges between Pakistan and Thailand. Thailand provided an ideal learning platform for this IOSM, as it is renowned for advanced agricultural practices and expertise in gemstones and silver jewelry. Sustainable development, fruit dehydration technologies, gem and jewelry cutting and polishing techniques, and Green Productivity (GP) were among the key subjects discussed. Participants also visited local companies to gain more insights from industry leaders, including Kuiburi Fruit Canning Co., Ltd., Food Processing Industry Club, Federation of Thai Industries, Gem and Jewelry Institute of Thailand, and Pranda Jewelry Public Company Limited.

Delegates visiting local companies in Thailand.

With the knowledge gained from Thailand’s successful models, Pakistan can improve workforce quality further, adopt GP methods and technologies, and enhance productivity in these industries while minimizing environmental impacts. The IOSM is a tailored program to address the needs of APO members and continues to serve as a key initiative to exchange knowledge, best practices, and innovations by fostering international cooperation.