Sri Lanka completes first-ever pineapple export to Pakistan

Sri Lanka has achieved a landmark agricultural milestone by successfully shipping its first-ever container of fresh pineapples to Pakistan. On August 21, a 20-foot container exported by C R Exports (Pvt) Ltd departed for the Pakistani market, marking the opening of a new export corridor for Sri Lankan fresh fruit.

The achievement followed extensive technical coordination between the National Plant Protection Organizations of both nations, involving the Sri Lanka Export Development Board, the Department of Agriculture, and relevant high commissions. To facilitate the process, Pakistani entomologist Mohammad Aqeed conducted inspections of Sri Lankan orchards and pack houses to ensure phytosanitary compliance.

Pakistan represents a significant market opportunity, importing between 2,000 and 5,000 metric tonnes of pineapples annually with an estimated value of USD 10 million. While Thailand and the Philippines are currently the primary suppliers, Sri Lankan exporters aim to capture market share through geographical proximity and product quality.