As per Hum News English (Islamabad). In a major breakthrough in the country’s agriculture sector, the private company sent 6 tones of cherries to China through Gilgit-Baltistan. That is the start of the firm’s expected export of up to 500 tons of cherries to China this year, shipments of which will run till August. This is not just tempting in terms of the economic gain for cherry farmers in Gigit Baltistan, but also indicates the opening of new international markets for the country’s agricultural products.
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Cherry Export Initiative Background
Early Attempts and Challenges
It is pertinent to mention here that Pakistan first eyed exporting cherries to China in 2016. Those initial entry attempts, however, were bogged down by technical snafus and the lack of a formal agreement. While the cherries are of a very high standard, logistical and phytosanitary difficulties proved to be major obstacles to the Chinese market.
The Phytosanitary Agreement
It was finally concluded in 2022 when Pakistan signed phytosanitary agreement with China. SIGNED: As a result, the four-day cherry protocol was finally signed between Pakistan, facilitated by the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan TDAP ensuring the Pakistani cherries met the health and safety requirements set in place by the Chinese authorities. If realised, it would open up a door for Pakistan to sell fresh cherries in the Chinese market that was not existing earlier.
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First Shipment and Logistics
Details of the First Batch
Refrigerated containers were used for the initial shipment of 6 tons of cherries to ensure the fruit arrives in the freshest condition. This was a remarkable export of the Pakistani agricultural sector under the phytosanitary agreement.
National Logistics Cells (NLC) Role
We have to say that the export process was nothing without the help of The National Logistics Cell (NLC). NLC arranges transportation of cherries from Gilgit-Baltistan to China. Via Sost border in refrigerated reefer containers for long distance to ensure.
Working with Government and Industry
Statements from Key Officials
Zubair Motiwala, Chairman of the Board of Trade Development Authority. Stated that the Pakistani government and the Gilgit-Baltistan administration would bear in mind the protection of the interests of the cherry growers. While writing this article “1st Bulk of Cherry exports from Gilgit Baltistan to China.” Kimura noted the effort between the regions to give farmers access to higher-value international markets and help them by offering the resources needed to grow and export cherries.
The Role of MLK Inc and Other
Sajid Usmani – Leading the roadmap to table takreem – MLK Private Company is one of the many companies advocating export interval. BUT Martin Luther King had solutions, created the infrastructure and followed ALL protocols/made sure everything was export compliant. This shipment has been successful because of the contribution of the company and will help them export in future.
Economic and Agricultural Implications
Benefits for Farmers
This will especially benefit farmers in Gilgit-Baltistan region, as the province is the main cherry cultivation area. Pakistani farmers will now get better prices with China importing large quantities of cherry.
Prospects of Production and Exports
The annual production of cherries in Gilgit-Baltistan is around 5,000 metric tons. The cherries used to cost less in the local markets. This will allow farmers to sell their produce at a better price, thus increasing their revenue and making the farm economy more sustainable.
Training and DevelopmentActions
Agriculture Education Programs
For a flavoured cherry production session, Pakistan Horticulture Development and Export Company has conducted training activities directed toward farmers. These programs are structured around best agricultural practices to increase yield, fruit size and quality.
Infrastructure and Support
More than a 100 cherry orchards in Rahimabad (Gilgit-Baltistan) and hundreds of orchards in Nagar and hunza have been planted and all provision for planting, maintenance and cultivation have been made available all the facilities to farmers. This infrastructure investment is essential to underpinning the export initiative and ensuring a year-round supply of high-quality cherries.
Future Outlook and Market Potential
Long-Term Export Plans
MLK’s Sajid Usmani is confident up to 500 tons of cherries could be shipped to China this season. Shipments will take place each month through August The regular monthly shipments of 15 to 18 tons will provide a steady supply to meet China ‘s increasing demand.
China’s Market Demand
It had the largest, three billion dollar per annum cherry market in the world, demanding 350,000 metric tonnes per annum) This huge market provides cherry growers in Pakistan with an excellent opportunity to increase their customer base in this country.
Conclusion
The export of cherries from Pakistan (Gilgit Baltistan) [1st Bulk of Cherry exports from Gilgit Baltistan to China] to China, a successful start of the “Panel on Agriculture Trade” of the country’s agricultural trade era. It not only provides Pakistanis a huge benefit of earning profit but also enhances the trade relationship of China with Pakistan. With the ongoing government and private sector support, the country has what it takes to become a considerable partaker in the international cherry market.
FAQs
1. What to make of Pakistan, China phytosanitary agreement?
The recent phytosanitary agreement confirms that Pakistani cherries conform to China’s quality standards for health and safety, meeting requirements for the Chinese market.
2. What is the annual contribution to the cherry production by Gilgit-Baltistan?
Every season 5,000 metric tons of cherries are born in GB.
3. HOW DOES THE National Logistics Cell (NLC) FACILITATE CHERRY EXPORTS?
NLC carries only the cherries from Gilgit-Baltistan to China in refrigerated containers due to need of High quality product.
4. What is the role of the private sector in the exports of cherries?
As an example, MLK has completed necessary infrastructure, in accordance with export requirements, to successfully export cherries such as Washington to China.
5. So, what does the future holds for Pakistan cherry exports to China?
Having the ability to export 500 tons this season and the tradition demand in China, Pakistan can soon escalate its cherry exports. 0000000
