GILGIT: A region of breathtaking beauty and cherry orchards, Gilgit Baltistan has emerged as a producer of high-quality fruit that has now paved its way to international markets.
Cherries from Gilgit Baltistan are known for their sweet and tangy taste, juicy texture and high nutritional value. The famous cherry producing areas of Hunza, Nagar, Yasin, Phundar and Nomal are known for their ideal climate and fertile soil. These regions produce high quality cherries and have put Gilgit Baltistan on the map as a leading fruit producing region.
In a major development, Gilgit Baltistan has sent its first shipment of fresh cherries to China, marking an important moment in its agricultural exports. A milestone reached this summer is the implementation of the plant health agreement between the two countries in 2022. China’s cherry market is worth $3 billion and needs 350,000 tons of cherries every year, which represents a great opportunity for Pakistani growers.
The owner of the largest cherry farm in Gilgit Rahimabad, which is approved by the Chinese customs administration, highlights the benefits of the Pakistan-China partnership in the field of agricultural exports.
“The approval of Gilgit Baltistan cherry orchards by Chinese customs officials is a testament to the high standards of the region,” he said.
Arman Shah, CEO of Hashwani Group and owner of the largest cherry farm in Gilgit Rahim Abad approved by Chinese Customs. Its cold storage allows exports even after the end of the season, which ensures constant supplies.
Cherries from Gilgit-Baltistan, he said, were already being sold in the Middle East and that this year’s export prices were between Rs 700-1000 per kg.
More than 100 cherry orchards and a cold storage and packing center in Gilgit’s Rahimabad have been registered with China’s General Administration of Customs to meet high quality and safety standards. This certification means that Gilgit Baltistan growers can get better prices for their cherries. Currently, Gilgit-Baltistan produces about 5,000 tons of cherries every season, but with access to the Chinese market, production is expected to increase.
Experts and cherry growers are optimistic about the future of cherry exports. Dr. Fatima, a horticulture expert from Gilgit Baltistan, emphasizes the importance of this development, stating that it would boost the economy and promote the rich agricultural heritage of the region.
Muhammad Hassain, a local cherry grower from Gilgit, shares his excitement about the new market opportunities and is confident that their cherries will be a hit in China and beyond.
However, it emphasizes educating local farmers through modern cherry production techniques in an effort to increase exports of the fruit.
“Pakistan can increase its cherry exports and earn valuable foreign exchange if bilateral agreements are signed with other countries, similar to the one China and Pakistan have concluded on cherry production and trade,” he said.
Raja Mir Wazir Mir, a visionary farmer, took a bold step in 2020 by replacing potato crops with more than 500 cherry plants. His gamble has paid off as he now earns a staggering Rs 0.5 million per annum, a significant increase from his previous income.
Inspired by its success, many farmers in Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) have adopted this innovative approach, reaping handsome rewards and transforming their livelihoods. By introducing cherry cultivation, these farmers not only increased their income, but also contributed to the economic growth and development of the region.”
Amidst the success of cherry cultivation in Gilgit-Baltistan, concerns have surfaced among local residents. The price of cherries has shot up in the local markets and a kilogram now costs Rs 600, while it was Rs 300 a year ago.
For Hamid, a local vendor, this significant price increase made it challenging to source high-quality cherries for the local market. “It is difficult for me to afford the best quality cherries at this exorbitant price,” he said, pointing out that he is trying to balance business needs with inflationary pressures.
The recent third National Cherry Festival at Rakaposhi Lookout in Nagar also celebrated the production and export of cherries in the region. The festival featured stalls selling different types of cherries and local produce that attracted hundreds of tourists and locals. This event brought significant economic benefits to farmers and local businesses.
Nagar Deputy Commissioner Ataur Rehman highlighted during the two-day festival that Nagar produced around 2,000 tonnes of cherries this year, with the majority being sold in other parts of the country at a marginal price. As the cherry blossoms bloom to signal the season of sweetness, Gilgit Baltistan is on the verge of an agricultural transformation. Entering the Chinese market promises economic benefits for local farmers and strengthens international trade relations. With its unique taste, high nutritional value and export potential, Gilgit Baltistan’s cherry industry is poised to revolutionize the region’s economy and share its precious cherries with the world.
