Arooj Zulfiqar

The farmers in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) are expecting a boost in their incomes this year as China has decided to import cherry from Pakistan. Abdul Mubin, a local farmer, told WealthPK , “This exciting development has made us optimistic, as we envision a prosperous future ahead. The opportunity to tap into the vast Chinese market holds tremendous potential for our cherry industry.” “The Chinese market, with its vast population and insatiable demand for high-quality agricultural products, offers GB cherry farmers a lot of opportunities,” he added. He said that cherries in the Pakistani market are too cheap. “So, if we get this opportunity to export the fruit to China, we can make much more money.”

Recently a Chinese business delegation visited Pakistan and signed a memorandum of understanding for importing cherries from the country. The delegation visited cherry orchards, packing units, and cold storage facilities to assess the potential for import. According to a report by the Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, 10% of the cherries worth about $1.77 million are available for export with a broad space for further export. “Gilgit-Baltistan’s climate is favourable for cherry production. Over 8,000 metric tonnes of cherries are harvested in the region annually,” said Javed Akhtar, deputy director of GB agriculture department, while talking to WealthPK.

“GB farmers hope to double their incomes and profit margins once China starts importing cherries from the northern region and other Pakistani cities,” he said. “The only way to get more profits is to enhance the export of cherries. We need to develop new varieties for the purpose. Currently, around 19 new varieties of cherries are grown in GB and Balochistan province. Pakistan produces different types of cherries like bing cherry called black cherry, stella cherry, sun bugs, etc,” he added. The official said the area for cherry production in GB was also limited, and called for increasing the production area to get more yield.

Approximately 992 hectares of land has been planted with cherries in Pakistan, with GB and Balochistan leading the way. The country's total cherry yield in 2018-19 was more than 2,000 metric tonnes. “Pakistani cherries have a huge potential, but they need government intervention to make their mark in international markets. We also have to adopt international quality standards to boost cherry exports,” he emphasised. “If we meet all of China’s protocol and phytosanitary requirements for the border trade, the farm gate price will double. Due to our proximity to China, cherries can be safely escorted to the border,” the GB agriculture department’s deputy director said.

Javed Akhtar said in order to ensure exports to China, Pakistani cherry orchards, packaging plants, and refrigerated warehouses must comply with strict conditions regarding quarantine pests and cold treatment.

Credit : Independent News Pakistan-WealthPk