Fruits' exports: exporters seek direct air link with EU countries

Published: February 12, 2013

Pakistani fruit exporters foresee around 6 million euro export to European Union (EU) in the next couple of years as Pakistani fresh fruits, vegetables and value-added product are being liked and demanded in the valued markets. The only issue in expending trade in the fresh fruit sector is lack of required air links with most of the EU and America countries.

In a statement issued here, Waheed Ahmed, Chairman Pakistan Fruit and vegetable Exporters Importers and Merchant Association (PFVA), said that the Fruit Logistica 2013 which concluded in Berlin on Friday proved a successful and encouraging event for Pakistani exporters who received millions of euro worth import orders. However, the direct air links and other logistic supports are needed to be ensured before the next mango season in order to tap the new markets and meet further demands. "The association, with the co-operation of concerned authorities, is trying to manage a chartered cargo flight to EU countries during the forth coming mango season," he said. This facility would be benefiting the exporters who have no option but to keep most of the demands unmet due to lack of cargo air links. 

He demanded of the Ministry of Commerce and Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) to resolve the logistic issues related to the fruit exports as despite being much liked in western states Pakistani products were not being sent to the lucrative markets. 

According to him, all prominent and small firms of fruit and vegetable had exhibited their products in Fruit Logistica, and most of them had received good response from the buyers/importers, who came to Berlin from over 100 countries. 

Referring to a leading Italian company, he said that the firm has agreed to support Pakistani horticulture industry through sharing technological expertise with local firms and growers to deal with pre-harvesting and post harvesting issues to increase the crop and improve quality of fruits. A deal has been finalised with the foreign company in this regard. The high ups of the foreign company would also visit Pakistan, besides giving training to local firms about innovation and value addition of the fruits/vegetable. Besides, a Spanish company would also visit Pakistan shortly to market its latest machinery and technology which are being used in various countries for value-addition and preservation, safety of fruits/vegetables. A team of the company would also inspect the existing facilities of fruit in Pakistan, he informed.