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KUNRI, Sindh, September 18, 2026: Chilli farmers in Sindh are set to benefit from an initiative aimed at improving the quality and safety of locally grown red chilli.
The Food Security and Agriculture Center of Excellence (FACE) has distributed geotextile drying sheets to chilli farmers in Kunri.
The initiative aims to help farmers move away from open-soil drying. It will provide growers with a cleaner surface for drying their crops.
FACE launched the initiative in collaboration with Verdora Ventures.
Organisers said the programme could help farmers produce cleaner and better-graded chilli for domestic and export markets.
Farmers often dry chilli directly on the soil. This can increase the risk of dirt and contamination.
The geotextile sheets keep the crop away from the ground during drying.
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They also help chilli dry faster and more evenly.
According to the organisers, the method can help reduce contamination and control aflatoxin, a major food-safety concern.
The improved drying process can also reduce post-harvest losses.
It may improve the chilli’s grade, colour and fineness. These improvements can help farmers access wider markets and potentially improve export opportunities.
The initiative comes as fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) companies face challenges in sourcing high-quality red chilli locally, according to the organisers.
They said some companies import higher-quality chilli before processing or exporting products.
The new drying method aims to improve the quality of locally produced chilli and create stronger links between farmers and commercial markets.
The organisers said better quality could also help increase farmer incomes and strengthen food security across the agricultural value chain.
The geotextile sheets were distributed during an event in Kunri, Sindh.
Muhammad Ahmad, Head of Partnerships at FACE, attended as chief guest. Tahir Naeem of Sona Agri Hub and representatives of Verdora Ventures also participated.
Ahmad said food safety and quality play a key role in accessing markets.
“Food safety and quality are the foundation of market access,” Ahmad said.
He said cleaner drying practices could help farmers control aflatoxin and protect their crops.
Syed M. Mahd, CEO of Verdora Ventures, thanked FACE for supporting the initiative.
He said contamination and aflatoxin have affected farmers’ ability to secure better prices and access new markets.
“A cleaner drying surface is a simple change that can open real doors,” Mahd said.
He said improved quality could support wider market access, export opportunities and better livelihoods for farming families.
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