Modernization of Food Industry in Sindh: PFI Inaugurates New Vacuum Chamber Dehydration Unit
Karachi (18 January 2025)
Karachi, January 18, 2025: Industrial landscape in Sindh witnessed a transformation driven by modern technology as Perfect Food Industries (PFI) inaugurated its vacuum Chamber Dehydration Unit. PFI is one of the leading companies in the field of fruits and vegetable dehydration and processing, working with national and multinational companies as well as government organisations.
Supported by the European Union funded Growth for Rural Advancement and Sustainable Progress (GRASP) with a matching grant of PKR 30 million, PFI established vacuum chamber and dehydration unit to process onions and tomatoes, a technology which can later be used for other vegetables and fruits.
Growth for Rural Advancement and Sustainable Progress (GRASP) is being implemented by the International Trade Centre (ITC) in collaboration with the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) to foster economic growth and uplift rural SMEs. SAFWCO serves as the local implementing partner in Karachi and Hyderabad.
The inauguration ceremony brought together notable guests including Mr. Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, Chairman Prime Miniter’s Youth Program, Mr. Nadir Gul Barech, CEO Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund, Mr. Rizwan Tariq, Provincial Lead Sindh International Trade Centre with representation from different sectors including government, chamber of commerce, media, local SMEs, and more.
The vacuum chamber and dehydration unit was inaugurated by Mr. Rana Mashhood Ahmad Khan, Chairman Prime Miniter’s Youth Program. Talking about the importance of industrial growth and innovation he said “I am proud to witness this remarkable achievement. It shows how strategic support and modern technology can boost confidence to take big steps. GRASP has demonstrated how targeted support for rural businesses can lead to remarkable growth. I urge youth of Pakistan to take inspiration from success stories like PFI, do not hesitate and come forward, the opportunities waiting for you are boundless.”
Representing International Trade Centre at the occasion, Mr. Rizwan Tariq Provincial Lead (Sindh) said “This inauguration symbolises the strength of public-private collaboration. By equipping SMEs like PFI with cutting-edge solutions, GRASP is not just fostering economic growth but also enabling access to international markets.”
Mr. Nadir Gul Barech, CEO Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund, provided invaluable insights about GRASP and PPAF’s contributions towards improving livelihood through enterprise development. He emphasised on the essential role of SMEs or SMEs adopting modern practices. He said “SMEs are backbone of our economy providing livelihoods to countless families and driving growth. GRASP is not just a programme; it is a commitment to empower SMEs with the tools, knowledge, and innovation to rise above challenges and transform communities. Supporting businesses like Perfect Food Industries is a step towards alleviating poverty and building a brighter future. I extend my heartfelt wishes to PFI and firmly believe their success will inspire many others, shaping a legacy of progress and lasting opportunities for better livelihoods.". He further highlighted GRASP’s wider impact, sharing that in Sindh alone, the programme has disbursed 176 matching grants worth over PKR 771 million, with 45% allocated to women-led businesses.
Expressing his gratitude, Mr. Choudhry Muhammad Riaz, owner of Perfect Food Industries (PFI) said “Today marks a new chapter for our business and GRASP’s support has been instrumental in this. This expansion will allow us to expand our operations, improve efficiency, and contribute to local and international markets with high-quality products.”
Perfect Food Industries is part of GRASP’s strategy to empower entrepreneurs, drive inclusive growth, and align with Sustainable Development Goals focused on economic growth and climate action.
The Growth for Rural Advancement and Sustainable Progress (GRASP), a European Union funded project for poverty reduction and sustainable inclusive economic growth, is being implemented by International Trade Centre (ITC) in partnership with the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO), Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) and the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF). Focused on selected districts of Balochistan & Sindh, it is providing technical and financial assistance in livestock and horticulture sectors for improving commercial viability of MSMEs and for a conducive policy regime.