Pakistan has exported 486,343 metric tons of various fruits worth $260.63 million during the first nine months of the current fiscal year, according to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS). This marks a significant contribution to the country's horticulture sector.
Export Performance
The fruit exports from July to March amounted to 486,343 metric tons, generating $260.63 million in revenue. Compared to the same period last year, there has been an increase in both quantity and value, reflecting improved production and market access.
Key Fruits Exported
The major fruits exported include citrus, mangoes, apples, dates, and guavas. Citrus fruits, particularly kinnow, lead the export list, followed by mangoes which are highly sought after in international markets.
Pakistan's fruit exports have been growing steadily due to government initiatives to enhance quality and meet global standards. The Pakistan Horticulture Development and Export Company (PHDEC) has played a pivotal role in promoting fruit exports.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the positive trend, exporters face challenges such as high transportation costs, lack of cold storage facilities, and stringent phytosanitary requirements in importing countries. However, there are opportunities to expand into new markets, including China, Central Asia, and Europe.
The government is working on improving infrastructure and providing subsidies to exporters to boost fruit exports further. The target for the full fiscal year is expected to exceed $350 million.
