Pakistan earned nearly $40 million from kinnow exports within just 45 days, demonstrating strong resilience in the country’s citrus export sector despite the closure of the Afghan market, according to the Ministry of Commerce.
Exports remained steady throughout December and the first half of January, which is considered the most critical window for kinnow shipments, ensuring sustained foreign exchange inflows during the peak season.
Government Redirects Kinnow Shipments to Alternative Export Markets
After trade disruptions with Afghanistan, the Ministry of Commerce, in coordination with the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), quickly redirected export consignments to other international destinations.
This rapid market adjustment helped prevent financial losses for kinnow growers and exporters and ensured that export supply chains remained active without major logistical delays.
Middle East and Southeast Asia Drive Market Diversification
Officials said the strong export performance was supported by targeted expansion into the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and other non-traditional markets, reducing reliance on a single export destination.
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Exporters were also guided to strictly follow international quality standards and phytosanitary regulations, helping Pakistani kinnow remain competitive in global fruit markets.
Coordinated Public-Private Efforts Boost Citrus Trade Performance
Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan praised the joint efforts of the Ministry of Commerce, TDAP, overseas trade missions, exporters, farmers, and logistics providers for responding effectively to the market disruption.
Authorities said TDAP played a central role in export promotion, documentation support, and overseas coordination, allowing shipments to continue smoothly and preserving Pakistan’s reputation as a reliable citrus exporter.
Strong Kinnow Exports Support Farmers and Foreign Exchange Reserves
The ministry noted that sustained kinnow exports are strengthening the entire citrus value chain, benefiting farmers, packers, processors, and shipping companies while also contributing valuable foreign exchange earnings to the national economy.
Officials added that the performance of kinnow exports signals broader potential for agricultural export growth, aligning with the government’s strategy to promote export-led economic recovery and market diversification.
