Pakistan has experienced a 50% reduction in kinnow exports over the past five years, now standing at 250,000 tons. This decrease is linked to climate change, outdated crop varieties, and falling production levels. The All Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Exporters Association (PFVA) has adjusted this season's export target to 250,000 tons, down by 50,000 tons from last year. The PFVA's Patron-in-Chief, Waheed Ahmed, pointed out the adverse effects of climatic variations on kinnow production, including prolonged heatwaves and delayed winters, which have compromised the fruit's quality and sweetness. Furthermore, the kinnow variety, over 60 years old, is prone to diseases and weather impacts, making it less productive.
Despite calls for research and development (R&D) to cultivate new varieties, no significant advancements have been made. Ahmed warned that without new varieties developed within three to four years, the kinnow export sector might collapse. Already, half of the 250 kinnow processing factories have closed, impacting 300,000 workers and risking an investment of about $1.7 billion (Rs300 billion). Pakistan's position in key export markets has weakened, with challenges exacerbated by rising freight charges and the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Ahmed has called for urgent government action to revitalize the industry by focusing on R&D and extending the export season.
Source: The News