Russia approves potato imports from Pakistan
- Import from Punjab started from April 8
In a significant development for Pakistan’s agricultural exports, the Russian Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance (Rosselkhoznadzor) has allowed the import of potatoes from Punjab into the Russian Federation, effective from April 8, 2026, as per a statement from Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP).
The approval comes after phytosanitary restrictions that were in place since May 2025. At the initial stage, Rosselkhoznadzor has permitted imports from three Pakistani exporters: M/s Chase International, M/s Zahid Kinnow Grinding & Waxing Plant, and M/s National Fruit.
Head of Pakistan Trade Mission in Moscow, Shabana Aziz, said that additional companies will be registered in the near future.
“With the support of TDAP and PHDEC teams, virtual B2B meetings are being arranged to help Pakistani exporters fully avail this emerging opportunity,” she said.
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Pakistan is currently witnessing a bumper potato crop, with production estimated at around 12 million tons. This new market access will help absorb surplus stocks, stabilize domestic potato prices, support farming communities, and generate valuable foreign exchange earnings.
The achievement reflects the coordinated efforts of the Ministry of National Food Security & Research, Department of Plant Protection, TDAP, Pakistan Horticulture Development & Export Company (PHDEC), and Pakistan’s Trade Mission in Moscow. It also demonstrates the commitment of the Federal and Punjab Governments to diversify Pakistan’s agro-export markets and strengthen bilateral trade relations with the Russian Federation.
In January, the Punjab government had approached the federal government to seek a reduction in freight charges for the export of potatoes and kinnow, particularly through Iran, as part of efforts to remove hurdles faced by growers and exporters.
Minister for Agriculture Punjab Syed Ashiq Hussain Kirmani said that the Punjab government was fully cognizant of the challenges faced by potato and kinnow growers and was taking serious and practical steps to resolve these issues. He said measures were being taken at various levels to remove obstacles in the export of both commodities.
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