Arooj Zulfiqar

Progressive farmers in Pakistan are endorsing the cultivation of exotic fruits to elevate exports and boost the country’s economy. “To boost agricultural productivity and strengthen the export sector, Pakistani farmers prioritise the cultivation of exotic fruits, which is a positive step for the country's agriculture industry,” said Dr Nurullah, a senior scientific officer at National Agriculture Research Centre (NARC). “Pakistan's agricultural landscape, traditionally dominated by staple crops such as wheat and rice, is undergoing a transformation as farmers are shifting from traditional crops to exotic fruits. This shift is driven by a combination of factors, including changing consumer preferences, global demand for unique and tropical produce, and the need to reduce reliance on traditional crops susceptible to fluctuations in market prices,” he said. “One such fruit gaining popularity among these progressive farmers is the dragon fruit, known for its vibrant appearance and rich nutritional content. Dragon fruit cultivation has found a favourable environment in certain regions of Pakistan. The fruit's adaptability to local climates, coupled with its potential for high yields, has attracted the attention of farmers seeking alternative crops,” he pointed out.

"Having achieved a successful harvest of dragon fruits in Sindh for the first time, farmers are optimistic that the large-scale exportation of diverse dragon fruit varieties could have a transformative impact on the national economy. Moreover, they see the potential for this endeavour to revolutionise the agricultural landscape in coastal regions of the province, such as Karachi and Thatta, where the climate is ideal for cultivating this fruit," he further explained. Nurullah said that avocados, papaya and kiwis were also among the exotic varieties finding their way into Pakistani farmlands. “These fruits can provide both export opportunities and contribute to the country's efforts to meet the demand for healthy produce in global markets.” The NARC scientist pointed out that in recent years, Punjab had seen a significant increase in the cultivation of non-native fruits and vegetables. "Our farm was once all about traditional crops.

But times change, and I saw an opportunity in exotic fruits," said Mr Arif, a farmer from Punjab, while talking to WealthPK. “I started with a small section for dragon fruit, and now it's become a significant part of our farm. The response has been fantastic,” he said. “It is believed that if promoted, large cultivation of such high-value produce can not only meet local needs but also supplement the country’s limited export capacity,” the farmer added. Majid Hussain, a farmer, also from Punjab, is now cultivating dragon fruit at his farms. Majid said Dr Attaullah Kunri, Director General of Pakistan Agriculture Research Council, Karachi, supplied him with 50 seed branches of dragon fruit. “Subsequently, I set up a nursery for ongoing cultivation. In February 2020, I initiated the cultivation of the fruit on a two-kanal plot, ultimately harvesting 55 pieces in September 2022. The total yield reached 145 kilogrammes, and I generously distributed the produce as gifts among friends and relatives,” he said.

Credit: INP-WealthPk