Citrus Fruit Trade

Pakistan is one of the largest citrus fruit grower country and has the potential of executing citrus fruit trade for foreighn exchange to alleviate its economic challenges.

Iran would be the potential customer located in neighborhood of Pakistan to enable citrus fruit trade conveniently.

Geographical connection and trade volume

The most important countries in the geographical region of South Asia, Pakistan and Iran shares about 959 km long border.

But the volume of trade in general and in particular with respect to citrus fruit trade between two countries has remained not much impressive despite having such a long border sharing.

Mass of bilateral trade between two countries is recorded at only $359 million.

Having such a long border sharing the potential of trade is always in place to be realized at any stage. 

Reason of low volume of trade

Key reason behind this low volume of trade between two countries is the sanctions on Iran spanning over a long period of time.

Recent developments (+ sign)

Envisaging the potential of bilateral trade both countries have recently come together to the point to exploit the opportunity and grab the fortune in the best interest of two nations.

With an intent of improving trade ties the series of inauguration of border crossing points is initiated as a result the border crossing point of Rimadan - Gabd was launched in December, 2020.

Pishin - Mand border crossing point that is considered third in series was later inaugurated in April, 2021.

Such developments in a very small period of time shows the eagerness of both countries to enhance and boost bilateral trade.

Apart from the opening of border crossing points both countries have agreed upon establishing border markets in order to provide a conducive environment for exporters. 

Import of citrus fruit

Iran also has expressed its interest in lifting sanctions on imports of citrus fruit from Pakistan that remained restricted by Iran over the years.

This has opened the door of opportunity for the growers and farmers of citrus in Pakistan to attain ample benefits from citrus fruit trade between both countries.

This decision of Iran is acclaimed by registered forums of citrus growers in Pakistan.  

Citrus production in Pakistan

Pakistan has extensive fields in Bahawalpur, Raheem Yar Khan and Sargodha region where citrus is being produced.

Pakistan at present produce around 2,100,000 tonnes of Kinnow that may rise in the light of recent agreement between two countries.

Moreover the efforts must be put in place to the production of exportable quality of kinnow as the figures of exportable quality produce now in hand are not much attractive.

The proportion of around 75% of total produce of kinnow is of B & C grade.

Thus looking into the window of opportunity as a result of initiatives of both countries the citrus growers must strive for enhancing the production of export quality kinnow in order to boost citrus fruit trade through this window of opportunity.

Conclusion

This opportunity may be realized into a fortune for citrus farmers and the country as well in terms of foreign exchange as a result of citrus fruit trade between both countries.