KARACHI: The kinnow export from the country has witnessed huge decline because of uncertain circumstances and current climatic conditions.
Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Association (PFVA) Chairman Waheed Ahmed, in a statement, said that the production of kinnow is expected to reach 165,000 tonnes, but due to climatic hazards and unfavourable weather conditions, it may not only lessen production but also reduce the export volume.
The kinnow export target has been reconciled at 200,000 tonnes, which is comparatively 150,000 tonnes less than the previous season export volume.
He said that to save Pakistan’s kinnow industry, PFVA has emphasised on upgrading the level of research and development. He said that the export of kinnow would largely depend on the traditional markets abroad including Russia, UAE, Philippine, Indonesia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Hong Kong, Singapore, Canada and others.
Iranian market, considered as a market of 70,000 tonnes Pakistani kinnow, is unfortunately reduced to less than 1,000 tonnes for exporters due to various unresolved issues. High duty imposed by the Iranian government on import of fruit and reluctance in issuing permit to Pakistani exporters in this regard are presently the hindrances in trade of fresh fruits with the neighbouring country.
