In response to domestic supply shortages, markets in Pakistan have seen an influx of Iranian and Afghan onions and tomatoes. This has led to a balancing act in pricing, with both imported and local vegetables being sold for Rs160 ($0.72) to Rs200 ($0.90) per kg. Despite the competition, Pakistani produce maintains an advantage in terms of taste and quality.
Traders have noted distinct features such as star-shaped leaves on Iranian tomatoes and the varied hues of onions from Iran and Afghanistan. Haji Shahjehan, president of the Falahi Anjuman Wholesale Vegetable Market, highlighted that the Sindh tomato crop has commenced, albeit with limited yields, necessitating imports to fill the gap. He anticipates a boost in local tomato production by November and December, which could lead to price adjustments.
Adverse weather conditions have compromised Sindh's onion output, prompting reliance on imports. Despite these challenges, Pakistan's vegetable export sector shows resilience, with a notable increase in both volume and value in the first quarter of the fiscal year, as reported by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics. Onions and potatoes dominate the export landscape, with recent activities including the export of imported onions and the arrival of Afghan cucumbers in the local market. Retail prices for potatoes remain steady, with red and white varieties priced at Rs100 ( $0.45) and Rs120 ($0.54) per kg, respectively.
Source: DAWN