Pakistan’s kinnow exports have demonstrated remarkable resilience, generating around $40 million in export revenue within 45 days despite the closure of the Afghan market. This period covers December and the first half of January, traditionally peak months for kinnow shipments.
Steady Export Performance Amid Market Challenges
According to a recent statement from the Ministry of Commerce, exports maintained a consistent pace throughout December and sustained momentum into mid-January. The ministry highlighted that, although the Afghan market is a significant destination, swift measures were taken to support exporters and redirect consignments to alternative international markets.
Government and Stakeholder Coordination
The Ministry of Commerce, working closely with the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), facilitated exporters to ensure uninterrupted shipments. Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan praised the collaborative efforts of government teams, trade missions abroad, exporters, growers, and logistics partners. He emphasized that overcoming the Afghan market closure required a unified approach across government and industry sectors.
Market Expansion and Compliance
Officials attributed the strong export performance to targeted market outreach and enhanced trade facilitation. Priority was given to expanding access to markets in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and other non-traditional destinations. Efforts also focused on meeting international quality and phytosanitary standards to maintain competitiveness.
Support from Trade Development Authority of Pakistan
TDAP complemented these initiatives through export promotion activities, coordination with overseas trade missions, and assistance with logistics and documentation. This improved coordination between federal authorities and the private sector helped maintain shipment schedules and reinforced Pakistan’s reputation as a dependable citrus supplier.
Economic Impact and Future Outlook
The sustained export performance has contributed valuable foreign exchange earnings and bolstered confidence throughout the kinnow value chain, benefiting farmers, processors, packers, and exporters alike. Stakeholders view this strong trajectory as a testament to the resilience of Pakistan’s agricultural exports and the effectiveness of government-led export facilitation.
Looking ahead, the continued momentum in kinnow exports is seen as a positive indicator for the broader agricultural export sector, supporting the government’s commitment to export-led growth and diversification of markets.
