LAHORE, June 9 (ABC): The Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission (PAEC) plans to set up an advanced electron-beam (e-beam) irradiation plant in Karachi. The facility will help exporters meet international phytosanitary standards and enter high-value global markets.
“The proposed facility is aimed at helping exporters comply with the stringent phytosanitary requirements imposed by international markets, thereby enhancing the export potential of Pakistan’s agricultural and food products in quality-conscious countries around the world,” Dr Rashid Mahmood, Director and spokesperson for PAEC, told Wealth Pakistan.
Global demand for food irradiation
More than 55 countries allow food irradiation as a phytosanitary treatment. The process prevents the spread of invasive pests and removes harmful bacteria from products such as meat and spices.
Many export destinations also require imported food products to meet specific irradiation standards.
Dr Rashid Mahmood said e-beam irradiation uses high-energy electrons for several industrial applications.
“E-beam irradiation is commonly used for the sterilisation of medical devices, contamination control and material modification,” he said.
PARAS Lahore supports export industries
Dr Rashid Mahmood said the PARAS (Pakistan Radiation Services) Irradiation Plant in Lahore uses both gamma and electron-beam technologies.
The facility sterilises medical devices, pharmaceuticals and agricultural products. Since 1988, it has provided irradiation services that extend shelf life and help businesses meet sanitary and quarantine requirements.
According to him, the PARAS Irradiation Plant can process up to 60,000 tonnes of products every year.
The facility helps preserve fruits and vegetables. It also supports the healthcare sector through the irradiation of medical supplies.
“Exporters of spices, herbs, seasonings, premium flours and frozen meat use irradiation treatment at PARAS before shipping products to quality-conscious markets in the United States, Australia, Canada and the Middle East,” Dr Rashid Mahmood said.
Mango exports gain access to Australia
Dr Rashid Mahmood said exporters send Pakistani mangoes to Australia after completing quarantine treatment at PARAS.
“In 2025, around 110,000 kilograms of mangoes were exported to Australia after processing at PARAS,” he said.
He added that PARAS has also created opportunities for frozen chicken exports to Qatar.
The facility removes salmonella through irradiation treatment. This process has helped exporters gradually increase frozen chicken shipments.
Broader industrial applications
According to Dr Rashid Mahmood, pharmaceutical companies and manufacturers of medical and surgical devices rank among the major clients of PARAS Lahore.
These companies need irradiation services to meet the specifications of overseas buyers.
He said the e-beam process also controls contamination in packaging materials, cosmetics and toiletries.
Karachi facility expected to expand exports
Dr Rashid Mahmood said PAEC has registered its irradiation facilities with the Federal Department of Plant Protection for the treatment of plants and plant products.
“Countries that accept irradiation treatment are expected to recognise the PARAS plant,” he said.
He expressed confidence that the Karachi e-beam irradiation plant would strengthen Pakistan’s food and agricultural exports. He said the facility could particularly increase exports to food-deficient countries in the Middle East.
