In a significant development, Pakistan has successfully exported its first batch of fresh cherries to China, marking a major milestone in the country’s horticulture industry. The initial shipment of six tonnes was followed by a 12-tonne cargo, with a total of 260 tonnes expected to be exported by the end of June.
This achievement is attributed to the phytosanitary agreement signed between China and Pakistan in 2022, granting market access for fresh cherries. China, which imports approximately 350,000 tonnes of cherries annually, worth $3 billion, presents a vast opportunity for Pakistani growers.
The success is a result of collaborative efforts by the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), Department of Plant Protection (DPP), Pakistan Horticulture Development & Export Company (PHDEC), and National Logistic Cell (NLC). Over 100 cherry orchards and a cold storage and packing house in Rahim Abad have been registered with the General Administration of Chinese Customs (GACC).
TDAP Chief Executive Zubair Motiwala emphasized that growers will be the primary beneficiaries of this export initiative. PHDEC Chief Executive Athar Hussain Khokhar highlighted the potential for Pakistan to capture a significant share of the Chinese cherry market, valued at $3 billion, by producing required varieties and leveraging proximity and growing demand.
This development is expected to benefit cherry growers in Gilgit-Baltistan, who previously sold their produce at low prices in local markets. With the support of the Export Development Fund (EDF) and the National Logistic Cell (NLC), Pakistan is poised to expand its presence in the Chinese cherry market.
