Scenario of Chilli Production and Hindrances Faced by the Growers of Sindh Province of Pakistan

Chilli (Capsicum annum L.) is an economically important crop in Pakistan and globally. Chilli native to America, were brought to sub-continent by the Portuguese traders from Brazil. In Pakistan, Sind province is the major producer of chilli crop followed by the Punjab and Baluchistan. It is not only used as food but also as main flavouring spice in the country cuisine. Pakistan was the 5th largest exporter but facing continues decline in its production due to various problems. Pests (whitefly, aphids, thrips, mites and heliothis) and pathogens (dieback, damping-off, CMV, powdery and downy mildews) are the main culprits in declining the national chilli production. Higher Aflatoxin level (40-300ppm) is one of the serious reasons behind declining export. In view of the mentioned problems we need strict strategy to overcome all these issues in order to increase our yield, export and economy.