Pakistan, a South Asian country, holds the 12th position among the world's leading citrus producers. However, the industry is currently facing challenges due to climate change, which has led to a decrease in both production and cultivation areas. The Ministry of National Food and Security in Pakistan reported a reduction in the citrus cultivation area from 156,887 hectares in 2021 to 156,211 hectares in 2023. Specifically, in Punjab, the area decreased slightly from 145,349 hectares to 145,084, while Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan also saw reductions in their citrus cultivation areas.
Correspondingly, citrus production in Pakistan has witnessed a downturn, from 2,372,119 tons in 2021 to 2,229,520 tons in 2023. This decline was noted across all provinces, with Punjab experiencing a decrease from 2,296,790 tons to 2,160,411 tons. The production in Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Balochistan also fell during the same period. Factors such as the increasing severity of smog and the impacts of climate change have been identified as contributors to this decline.
Experts emphasize the need for agricultural innovation to combat these challenges. Waheed Ahmed, from the All Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Exporters Association, highlighted the urgency of developing new, disease-resistant citrus varieties that can withstand climate change effects. He noted that the current variety of Mandarin (Kinnow) in Pakistan, introduced 60 years ago, has lost its natural disease resistance, exacerbated by climate change.
Research articles and experts suggest that the citrus industry's adaptation to climate change requires a scientific approach, including the development of new citrus varieties. Climate expert Murad Khan pointed out that climate change has also shortened the citrus harvesting season in Pakistan, limiting export opportunities. He referenced the introduction of climate-resilient wheat varieties in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as an example of the necessary research and development in agriculture.
The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) reported that in 2021, Pakistan exported citrus products worth USD 185.5 million, with Afghanistan being the top destination. However, challenges such as low production capacity, significant post-harvest losses, and non-compliance with international regulations hinder the global export of quality food products from Pakistan.
Source: WE News