PANJGUR: Pakistan has started producing major vegetables and some other fruits like Cherry at national level to earn the title of being “fruit basket of Pakistan”. Although it is sparsely populated, Baluchistan is the largest production base for apples, apricots, almonds, plums, pomegranates grapes, etc in Pakistan. The vegetables and fruits of Baluchistan have great potential for export to China.
Liaquat Shahwani, Spokesperson Govt of Baluchistan said that the establishment of a date processing unit at Panjgur is expected to undergo implementation shortly. This intervention will add value to the commodity which is grown largely in the area but growers are deprived of legitimate profit margins as they have to sell the raw Dates at throw away prices in the local markets. “Proper processing shall also open up export opportunities. The initiative is also believed to boost much needed economic activities including employment in the far-flung area of Panjgur,” he said. The export potential of not only Dates but Onions as well are promising by all means. Liaquat Shahwani stated that more than half million tons of Onions are annually produced in Baluchistan which if exported to China shall go a long way in uplifting the socio-econimc standing of onion growers who usually sustain heavy losses due to local market gluts during the harvest season. – Agencies
