Beijing: China is the world’s largest market for cherries and Pakistan has made a significant contribution by exporting its first fresh cherries to China.
Pakistan aims to export 260 tons of fresh cherries to China by the end of June using containers.
Washed with sweet ice water, ripened in the golden rays of the sun, and supplied with the breeze from the highest mountain in the world, these cherries offer a delicious taste.
Exporting fresh cherries to the Chinese market can significantly improve the lives of local Pakistani farmers.
Chinese consumers prize cherries for their rich color – red traditionally signifies wealth – and their juicy, sweet taste. Cherries are often given as gifts, with taste and appearance being important factors. In China, sweet, firm and mahogany to dark 28-30mm deep red cherry is preferred.
Despite recent success, Pakistan faces challenges in competing globally in cherry production and processing. Today, Pakistani chili has reached a handful of international markets such as the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This limitation is mainly due to the local farmers’ lack of knowledge about the processes and procedures required to register their products internationally. Without proper guidelines and modern technology, obtaining international certification remains difficult, thus hindering entry into foreign trade centers.
In the Chinese market, Pakistani cherries compete not only with domestically grown cherries from Shandong and Liaoning provinces, but also with fresh cherries imported from countries such as Chile. Major market players such as Chile currently export 85 percent of cherries to China each year. Kyrgyzstan is one of the new cherry suppliers for China.
In 2024, Kyrgyzstan can export up to 10,000 tons of fresh cherries to China. In addition, new entrants such as Tajikistan are entering the Chinese market.
Pakistan’s entry into the Chinese cherry market represents promising growth, while achieving greater competitiveness will be crucial in the long term. Providing smallholder farmers with the education, guidance and technology they need can help them meet international standards and access profitable markets.
With these improvements, Pakistan’s cherry industry can flourish and make a more significant impact on the world stage.
