Pakistan’s kinnow exports soar to $40mn in 45 days despite Afghan market closure

Pakistan’s kinnow exports continued to register strong growth despite the closure of the Afghan market, earning approximately USD 40 million in exports within a span of just 45 days, covering the peak export period of December and the first half of January.

In a press release issued on Monday, the Ministry of Commerce said that despite the disruption of a traditionally significant export destination, the ministry, in close coordination with the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan, moved swiftly to facilitate exporters and redirect consignments toward alternative international markets.

“These efforts ensured continuity in shipments and protected growers and exporters from potential losses.”

As per the ministry, the data showed that exports maintained a steady pace throughout December, followed by sustained momentum during the first 15 days of January.

READ MORE: OPINION: Shutting Afghan trade: a costly mistake?

Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan lauded the collective efforts of the Ministry of Commerce team, Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), Pakistan’s trade missions abroad, exporters, growers, and logistics partners, acknowledging that the strong performance was the result of close coordination and shared commitment.

He emphasised that overcoming the impact of the Afghan market closure required a whole-of-government and whole-of-sector approach, and appreciated the dedication of officers and stakeholders who worked tirelessly to keep export channels open and competitive, the press release said.

Officials attributed this performance to focused market outreach, enhanced trade facilitation, and close engagement with exporters.

Priority was given to expanding access to markets in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and other non-traditional destinations, while ensuring compliance with international quality and phytosanitary standards, the ministry said.

Meanwhile, the TDAP complemented these efforts through targeted export promotion, coordination with overseas trade missions, and continuous support to exporters in logistics and documentation. Improved coordination between federal authorities and the private sector helped maintain shipment schedules and preserve Pakistan’s reputation as a reliable citrus supplier.

READ MORE: ‘Pakistan can scale up kinnow exports to $400m by adopting new citrus varieties’

“The sustained export performance has provided critical foreign exchange earnings and reinforced confidence across the kinnow value chain, benefiting farmers, processors, packers, and exporters.

Stakeholders noted that the strong trajectory, despite external challenges, reflects the resilience of Pakistan’s agri-exports and the effectiveness of government-led export facilitation.”

The continued momentum in kinnow exports is being viewed as a positive signal for the broader agricultural export sector, reaffirming the government’s commitment to export-led growth and market diversification, the statement added.