Pakistan kinnow exports earn $40 million in 45 days despite Afghan market closure

Pakistan’s kinnow exports generated around $40 million in foreign exchange within 45 days, covering December and the first half of January, despite the closure of the Afghan market, according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Commerce on Monday.

The ministry said export volumes remained steady throughout December and continued at a similar pace during the first 15 days of January, even as access to a key regional destination was disrupted.

Following the market closure, the Ministry of Commerce, working with the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan, facilitated exporters in diverting consignments to alternative international markets to avoid shipment disruptions and losses.

According to the ministry, export continuity was maintained through coordination with exporters, logistics providers, and overseas trade missions, allowing shipments to proceed during the peak export window.

Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan acknowledged the role of government departments, trade missions, exporters, growers, and logistics partners in sustaining export flows, the statement said.

Officials attributed the export performance to targeted outreach in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and other non-traditional markets, alongside efforts to meet international quality and phytosanitary requirements.

TDAP supported exporters through export promotion initiatives, coordination with trade missions abroad, and assistance with logistics and documentation, helping maintain shipment schedules.

The ministry said the continued export flow provided foreign exchange earnings and supported stakeholders across the kinnow supply chain, including farmers, processors, and exporters, despite external trade constraints.