Cherries to be exported to China soon: envoy
Pakistan Ambassador to China, Moinul Haque, announced that Pakistani cherries will soon be available in the Chinese market after the signing of the China-Pakistan protocol for cherry exports and a recent trade delegation visit to Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B).
Describing the cherries of Gilgit-Baltistan as sweet and juicy, Haque expressed optimism about the new economic opportunity for local farmers. He highlighted that the signing of the protocol and the trade delegation’s visit would pave the way for Pakistani cherries to enter Chinese markets.
The cooperation protocol between China and Pakistan, signed during Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to Beijing last year, not only allows China to import cherries from Pakistan but also supports local growers in enhancing production.
Last month, a delegation of 15 Chinese buyers from provinces including Xinjiang, Zhejiang, Shandong, and the Weifang area, visited the scenic region of G-B to explore options for purchasing and importing cherries from Pakistan. During their visit, they interacted with local farmers, officials, and inspected the quality of the fruit in cherry orchards.
G-B produces approximately 5,000 metric tonnes of cherries per season. As local consumption is limited, growers primarily rely on exporting the fruit. Given the perishable nature of cherries, Pakistan has been seeking nearby destinations for export, with China being the most viable option due to its close proximity and growing demand for the fruit.
To meet the rising demand in the Chinese market, it is crucial for growers in G-B to improve farming practices and utilise modern technology. The establishment of processing and packaging facilities will also play a significant role in increasing the fruit’s shelf life and facilitating transportation.
A Pakistani logistics trader based in Kashgar, Doulart Karim expressed his readiness to import Pakistani cherries this year. He emphasised that exporting cherries to China would provide an opportunity for orchard owners and traders to earn higher profits. Karim highlighted the organic nature of Pakistani cherries as a factor that would help them carve out a niche in the Chinese market. Currently, China imports the majority of its cherries from South American countries, with an annual demand of around 350,000 metric tonnes. The availability of Pakistani cherries is expected to diversify the market and cater to China’s growing appetite for this fruit.
Published in The Express Tribune, June 22nd, 2023.
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