FPCCI Panel Chief called for ban on Imported fruits and Indian Vegetables to reduce trade deficit

ISLAMABAD: The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI) Regional Chairman on Horticulture Exports Committee, Ahmad Jawad on Wednesday expressed concern over growing import export in the country and called for ban on imported fruits and Indian Vegetables in order help to reduce the trade deficit. "When our trade deficit gap widened day by day then one should discourage the non essential items for a start"; he mentioned.

Talking to media, he said Pakistan is blessed with delicious fruits and vegetables with its unique taste, so in that scenario we shouldn't be promote imported fruits and vegetables for the people of Pakistan.

Despite the fact from the last few years imported fruits like apples, oranges and some other indian vegetables have been penetrated in the markets with higher rates and consumer compel to purchase due to its cosmetic look.

The import of apples and other fruits has supplemented the limited availability of local apple and other fruits and has enabled the market to match the high demand especially in Ramadan. However, the high price of imported fruits has shrunk the market as many consumers find it beyond their means.

A random market survey revealed that apple from Thailand, the United States and New Zealand is selling at Rs. 300 to 350 per kg, and Chinese apple at Rs. 250 to 300 per kg. In contrast the locally produced small apple is available at Rs. 150 to 200 per kg. Greengrocers in various areas said price-conscious customers will have to wait for around 15 days as bulk supplies from new apple crop will find way into the market said Jawad. Similarly Some fruit vendors at Karachi’s, Peshawar some other locations put on display big size South African oranges, which cost Rs420 a dozen with no bargain option.

Meanwhile, Chinese grapes available in markets are fetching a price of Rs. 350 to 400 per kg while local grapes are being sold for Rs200 to 300 per kg. Chinese pear (nashpati) is available at Rs. 180 to 200 per kg.

Ahmad Jawad also said the imported fruits fascinate buyers because they look better. But they can’t compete with Pakistani fruits on taste, FPCCI official further highlighted if we have invest on our producing till packing then we don't look into towards the international products because this country is blessed with every thing only due efforts and concrete policy is required.

"He also viewed with little efforts Pakistan fruits and vegetables can tap the export market at the impressive figure of $1000 million annually and further advised Ministry of Commerce and FBR should minimize the export duty on horticulture produce and provide 10PC freight subsidy so that we may competitive for the buyers".