ISLAMABAD, May 3 (ABC): Pakistan’s potato exports remained stable at around 248,000 tons during the July–January period of FY2025-26, maintaining a steady presence in international markets despite shifting trade conditions.
In value terms, potato exports reached approximately $56 million, according to official data available with Wealth Pakistan. The figures reflect consistent demand and supply continuity during the period.
The United Arab Emirates emerged as the leading destination for Pakistan’s potato exports, followed by Sri Lanka, while Afghanistan remained an important regional market. Exports to Afghanistan stood at 29,411.90 tons in the first half of the fiscal year.
The Gulf region — including the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Oman — continued to show stable demand for Pakistani potatoes. Sri Lanka also remained a key buyer, although imports fluctuated in line with its domestic supply conditions.
Among smaller markets, Somalia imported limited quantities, indicating gradual diversification of Pakistan’s potato export base.
A key positive development for Pakistan’s potato exports is the reopening of the Russia market. Khawar Nadeem, Manager Agri Products at Pakistan Horticulture Development & Export Company, said Pakistan has regained access after Russia cleared potato imports from Punjab.
The National Plant Protection Organization removed phytosanitary restrictions that had been in place since May 2025. This decision allowed exporters to resume potato shipments to Russia.
Initially, Russia has approved three Pakistani companies to export potatoes from April 8 in the first phase. Efforts are underway to expand the number of approved exporters.
A list of around 40 companies has already been submitted to Russian authorities. Pakistan is actively engaging to secure permissions for more exporters and expand market access.
Khawar Nadeem said the development comes at a time of record potato production. “This year, production is estimated at around 12 million metric tonnes, compared to 8.7 million metric tonnes last year,” he said.
He added that Pakistan is expecting a surplus of 4 to 4.5 million metric tonnes. The country typically exports between 500,000 and 600,000 tonnes annually, highlighting strong export potential.
Recent trends show that Pakistan’s potato exports have remained resilient. After strong earnings in FY2022-23, exports declined in FY2023-24 and recovered in FY2024-25 due to higher volumes.
The current fiscal year is continuing this trend, with stable export volumes and a positive outlook supported by improved market access and steady international demand.
