WEBDESK: Pakistan is facing a decline in kinnow production with a 50% drop in exports over the past five years due to ongoing environmental challenges including smog.
The export of kinnow (mandarins), is facing a significant decline due to the increasing environmental challenges in the country. Experts warn that if the current trend continues, the country may soon lose its position as a major exporter of this fruit.
The Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Exporters Association (PFVEA) has set a target of 250,000 tons for ‘kinnow’ exports this season, down by 50,000 tons compared to last year.
Despite starting the export season on December 1st, the industry has been dealing with a 50% drop in exports over the past five years
According to the association’s leader, Waheed Ahmad, the situation is worsening due to the impact of smog and delayed winter. Ahmad estimates that these environmental factors could lead to a 35% drop in kinnow production, which also affects the fruit’s sweetness and overall quality.
One of the biggest challenges facing kinnow production is the outdated 60-year-old variety that has been unable to cope with diseases and climate changes.
The PFVEA has long advocated for research and development to create new varieties of kinnow and plant them in new regions to diversify and future-proof the industry. However, these efforts have largely been ignored by the government, leading to a steady decline in exports.
Association’s leader warns that if new varieties are not introduced soon, kinnow exports could completely halt within three years, jeopardizing the livelihoods of 300,000 workers and putting at risk over 300 billion rupees in investments in the industry.
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