Pakistan plans export push to tackle potato surplus

The government is preparing a targeted export push to manage surplus potato stock, aiming to ease pressure on domestic prices while expanding Pakistan’s footprint in international markets.

The development came during a high-level meeting chaired by Federal Minister for Commerce Jam Kamal Khan to review the situation arising from surplus potato production in the country and to devise a coordinated strategy for enhancing exports while protecting the interests of farmers, read a statement on Tuesday.

Senior officials from the federal government and the Government of Punjab attended the meeting. Rana Ihsaan Afzal Khan, Coordinator to the Prime Minister, and Secretary of Commerce Jawad Paul also participated in the discussions.

Participants examined updated production estimates, domestic market conditions, export performance, and logistical challenges. It was noted that an expansion in cultivation area, along with carryover stocks from the previous season, has led to surplus availability, placing pressure on farm-gate prices amid challenging global market conditions.

The minister emphasised that the primary impact of the surplus is being felt by farmers due to depressed prices, and therefore any support mechanism should prioritise direct assistance to farmers rather than artificial price interventions that may distort the market.

The meeting focused on improving export competitiveness, particularly in Central Asian and other emerging markets. It was agreed that a targeted and time-bound freight facilitation mechanism could be evaluated, subject to fiscal feasibility and clearly defined benchmarks, to help exporters manage rising logistics costs without creating long-term distortions.

Jam Kamal also directed that business-to-business engagements with key destinations, including Central Asia, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific markets, be intensified to expand buyer linkages and diversify export destinations.

He stressed the importance of coordinated and data-driven decision-making between the federal government and the Government of Punjab, instructing relevant departments to compile updated production, export, and logistics data to develop a comprehensive proposal for consideration.

He observed that sustainable solutions must be market-aligned and fiscally responsible.

Jam Kamal reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting both farmers and exporters through practical and balanced policy measures, ensuring stability in the agricultural sector while maintaining competitiveness in international markets.