Traditionally, around 10 percent of citrus fruits produced in the country are exported. Currently no proper policy and subsidy from the government is available to improve the export of this potent source. Till date only private sector is in the forefront in the export field.
He predicted "if we adopt proper marketing strategy for the next three years with the required modern infrastructure from the government, we could enhance the export of this product by millions." "Regardless of huge demand from Asia" grabbing a big share of Kinnow exports in this region was not possible without making our exports competitive in view of growing competition from China. In recent past China has managed to win huge export orders of citrus fruits from this region due to low pricing. The quality of our Kinnow is much better than those of China but their fruits are cheaper because of low input cost," he said.
Training and development of export ethics is also required, as due to some unprofessional approach and procedures the country's name was badly tarnished. In this regard Pakistan Horticulture and Development & Export Company (PHDEC) may perform its due role with the help of research-oriented entrepreneurs and hold Kinnow exhibitions in Asean countries as well.
He requested the Foreign Office and the Ministry of Commerce to take up the matter with Iran regarding Kinnow export and give directives to banks to allow E-forms. Iran consumes around 50,000 tonnes of Kinnow every year. "We should avoid decisions in haste which could affect our country's exports. Kinnow is the only product in Pakistani fruits which currently earns around 90 to 100 million dollars per year. It may be recalled here that previous year's citrus fruit's export target had remained unfulfilled at 225,000 tonnes as against the target of 300,000 tonnes.