Pak sends first cherry consignment to China

KARACHI: Pakistan has sent its first consignment of cherries to China through a refrigerated container, the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) announced on Thursday.

Fresh cherries from Pakistan exported to China after the phytosanitary agreement signed between two countries in 2022, wherein China had granted market access to Pakistan for export of fresh cherries. Immediately after the signing of the protocol, the TDAP and the Department of Plant Protection (DPP) assisted eligible orchard owners in registering with the General Administration of Chinese Customs (GACC). The Pakistan Horticulture Development and Export Company (PHDEC) also conducted cherry product development activities aimed to educate farmers on the adoption of sound agricultural practices that can significantly increase production and fruit size, especially for renowned varieties like black and French cherries

The Pakistan Horticulture and Development Export Company has chalked out a plan with the assistance of the GB extension department for enhancing the production of varieties demanded by Chinese consumers. In this regard, more cherry orchards are being assisted to improve farming practices. It is also planned to establish processing and packaging facilities at major hubs in GB.

Chief executive of TDAP Zubair Motiwala said: “growers will be the major beneficiary of the cherries export. He said that TDAP and the PHDEC are trying their level best to capitalize on the 1.2 billion-people Chinese market.