Pakistan has secured a major boost for its agricultural exports after Russia approved the import of potatoes from Punjab, opening a key international market for the country’s bumper crop.
According to the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan, the Russian Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance, known as Rosselkhoznadzor, has lifted phytosanitary restrictions that had been in place since May 2025.
In the first phase, imports have been allowed from three Pakistani exporters: Chase International, Zahid Kinnow Grinding and Waxing Plant, and National Fruit.
The opening of the Russian market comes at a crucial time as Pakistan is witnessing a bumper potato crop, with production estimated at around 12 million tons.
Head of Pakistan’s Trade Mission in Moscow, Shabana Aziz, said more Pakistani companies are expected to be registered in the near future. She added that virtual business-to-business meetings are being arranged with the support of TDAP and the Pakistan Horticulture Development and Export Company to help exporters capitalize on the opportunity.
Earlier this year, Punjab had also urged the federal government to reduce freight costs for exporting potatoes and kinnow, especially through Iran, to ease pressure on growers and exporters.
Punjab Agriculture Minister Syed Ashiq Hussain Kirmani said the provincial government was actively working to remove export bottlenecks and improve market access for both commodities.