Uzbekistan has approved 184 Pakistani kinnow exporters and 39 packing facilities ahead of the upcoming citrus export season. The decision opens a new market for Pakistan’s fruit exporters. It also offers an alternative destination amid ongoing trade disruptions with Afghanistan.
The government announced the approval on Tuesday. It allows exporters registered with Pakistan’s Department of Plant Protection (DPP) to access the Uzbek market. However, exporters must meet the required regulatory and phytosanitary standards.
The development is expected to provide relief to Pakistan’s citrus industry. Exporters have faced repeated difficulties because of border and trade tensions with Afghanistan. The neighbouring country has traditionally been one of the largest buyers of Pakistani kinnow.
The approval comes at an important time for the industry. Pakistan’s new citrus export season is approaching. Access to Uzbekistan could help exporters find additional buyers and reduce their dependence on traditional markets.
Afghanistan Trade Disruptions Encourage Market Diversification
Pakistan’s fruit trade with Afghanistan has remained disrupted since October 2025. Afghanistan has historically served as a major destination for Pakistani agricultural products. Kinnow and mangoes are among the key exports affected by these trade challenges.
The approval from Uzbekistan is expected to create fresh opportunities for Pakistani growers and exporters. It could also help strengthen Pakistan’s agricultural trade presence in Central Asia.
The move follows diplomatic and technical efforts by several Pakistani government departments. The Ministry of Commerce played a role in securing market access. The Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) also contributed to the process.
The Ministry of National Food Security and Research (MNFSR) and the Department of Plant Protection were also involved. Their coordination helped address the technical requirements for exporting kinnow to the Uzbek market. Pakistan’s Trade and Investment Counsellor in Uzbekistan also supported the efforts. The Pakistani embassy in Tashkent contributed to the process as well.
The government has appreciated Uzbekistan’s cooperation in approving Pakistani exporters and packing facilities. It said Pakistan remains committed to expanding bilateral trade. Greater access for agricultural products is part of these efforts. The approval of 184 exporters and 39 packing facilities provides a new opportunity for Pakistan’s citrus sector. Exporters can now explore Uzbekistan as an additional destination for their products.
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The development may help the industry manage challenges in traditional export markets. It also supports Pakistan’s efforts to diversify agricultural trade and strengthen commercial links with Central Asian countries. However, exporters will still need to comply with Uzbekistan’s required standards. Meeting these conditions will remain important for maintaining access to the market during the upcoming citrus season.
