Pakistan has embarked on its first cherry export to China, marking a significant milestone in the country’s agricultural exports. A private company has successfully dispatched the initial shipment of six tons of cherries via the Gilgit-Baltistan route to China. This inaugural export paves the way for an expected export of up to 500 tons of cherries to China this year. The export process will continue until August, with the next shipment comprising 18 tons of cherries.
Government and Industry Collaboration
Zubair Motiwala, Chairman of the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), emphasized the government’s dedication to assisting cherry growers in accessing international markets. He mentioned that TDAP, in collaboration with the government of Pakistan and Gilgit-Baltistan, is utilizing all available resources to support cherry farmers.
Historical Context and Challenges
Efforts to export cherries from Pakistan to China date back to 2016. However, technical issues and the absence of a formal agreement hindered progress. It wasn’t until 2022 that Pakistan and China signed a phytosanitary agreement, allowing Pakistan to export fresh cherries to China. Following this agreement, TDAP promptly engaged with relevant authorities in Pakistan and China to facilitate the export process.
Cherry Cultivation in Gilgit-Baltistan
In Rahimabad, Gilgit-Baltistan, TDAP and related agencies have established over 100 cherry orchards. These efforts aim to boost cherry cultivation and ensure that farmers receive the necessary support for planting and maintaining the orchards. This initiative not only enhances local production but also contributes to foreign exchange earnings through exports.
Read Also: The Tiny Mistake That Led to the Arrest of a Young Man Involved in a £25 Million Fraud
Training for Cherry Growers
To prepare for the export process, the Pakistan Horticulture Development and Export Company (PHDEC) organized training sessions for cherry growers. These sessions focused on adopting proper agricultural practices to increase yield and improve the size of the cherries. Zubair Motiwala highlighted the importance of these activities in ensuring high-quality produce for the international market.
Production and Market Potential
Gilgit-Baltistan is the primary region for cherry cultivation in Pakistan, producing approximately 5,000 metric tons of cherries each season. Previously, these cherries were sold at low prices in local markets. The agreement with China provides growers with an opportunity to sell their produce at better prices. According to TDAP, China imports cherries worth $3 billion annually, with a demand of around 350,000 metric tons per year.
Role of National Logistics Cell (NLC)
The National Logistics Cell (NLC) plays a crucial role in the export process, providing the necessary refrigerated containers to transport cherries from Gilgit-Baltistan to China through the Sost border. TDAP’s Chief Executive, Zubair Motiwala, confirmed NLC’s involvement in ensuring the smooth transportation of cherries.
Future Prospects
Sajid Usmani, the owner of the private company leading the export initiative, expressed optimism about reaching the target of exporting 500 tons of cherries this season. He mentioned that following the initial shipment of six tons, an additional 17 to 18 tons will be dispatched in the coming days. Usmani’s company plans to continue exporting cherries to China until August, with shipments of 15 to 18 tons at regular intervals.
Conclusion
The successful export of cherries from Pakistan to China marks a new chapter in the country’s agricultural exports. This achievement is a testament to the collaborative efforts between the government, TDAP, and private companies. It not only opens up new markets for Pakistani farmers but also contributes to the country’s economy. As the export process continues, it is expected to bring significant benefits to the cherry growers of Gilgit-Baltistan and enhance Pakistan’s presence in the global agricultural market.