Pakistan Kinnow records strong growth despite Afghan market closure

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s kinnow exports registered strong growth despite the closure of the Afghan market, following the redirection of consignments to alternative international destinations, the Press Information Department (PID) said in a statement on Monday.

According to estimates shared in the statement, Pakistan earned approximately $40 million from kinnow exports within just 45 days, covering the peak export period of December and the first half of January.

“The data shows that exports maintained a steady pace throughout December, followed by sustained momentum during the first 15 days of January — an encouraging sign amid regional trade constraints,” the statement said.

Due to the leadership of Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan, and in close coordination with the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), exporters were facilitated, and consignments were redirected to alternative international markets, it added.

“These efforts ensured continuity in shipments and protected growers and exporters from potential losses,” the statement said.

The minister emphasized that overcoming the impact of the Afghan market closure required a “whole-of-government and whole-of-sector approach,” and appreciated the dedication of officers and stakeholders who worked tirelessly to keep export channels open and competitive.

Officials attributed the performance to focused market outreach, enhanced trade facilitation, and close engagement with exporters, the statement added.

It said priority was given to expanding access to markets in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and other non-traditional destinations, while ensuring compliance with international quality and phytosanitary standards.

These efforts were complemented by TDAP through targeted export promotion, coordination with overseas trade missions, and continuous support to exporters in logistics and documentation.

Improved coordination between federal authorities and the private sector helped maintain shipment schedules and preserve Pakistan’s reputation as a reliable citrus supplier, the statement added.

The continued momentum in kinnow exports is being viewed as a positive signal for the broader agricultural export sector, reaffirming the government’s commitment to export-led growth and market diversification, the statement concluded.