November 30, 2018: Fruit exporters taking exception to existent gap in the imports and exports of country's trade goods have called for ban on imports of non-essential luxury items, including exotic fruits.
Ahmad Jawad, a horticulturist by training and also the formal Regional Chairman on Horticulture Exports, Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FPCCI) talking to APP said a variety of imported fruits and vegetables have penetrated in our markets with absolutely no check.
Emphasizing that these are mainly meant to cater the moneyed class, Jawad further added that consumers are mainly attracted to their cosmetic look.
“Despite the fact that Pakistan itself was blessed with fruits and vegetables known for their unique taste we can register that imported fruits are being sold at much higher rates,” he said.
In reply to a question, he acknowledged that import of apple and other fruits has supplemented the limited availability of local varieties of many of these home grown fruits.
The given situation was said to reflect dire need for investment in the fruit sector, right from production to packing levels.
To another query, he said urgent attention must also be extended towards tapping international markets for locally produced fruits and vegetables as they can easily clinch demand worth millions annually.
Concerted efforts, dedication and sincerity of purpose is needed, he said seeking reduction in the export duty on horticulture produce coupled with provision for 10 percent freight subsidy ultimately turning fruits and vegetable of the country competitive for the buyers.
Ahmad Jawad re-emphasized that imported fruits do fascinate buyers as they look better, however, cannot compete in terms of taste with Pakistani variety.
