Colombo, August 21 (Daily Mirror) - Sri Lanka has exported its first consignment of fresh pineapples to Pakistan, opening a new overseas market for the country’s agricultural products.
The first 20-foot container of fresh Sri Lankan pineapples was packed for export today (21), with C R Exports (Pvt) Ltd handling the shipment.
The export follows technical discussions and cooperation between the National Plant Protection Organisations (NPPOs) of Sri Lanka and Pakistan, which resulted in the establishment of the required phytosanitary arrangements for exporting fresh pineapples to Pakistan.
The Sri Lanka Export Development Board (EDB), Sri Lankan High Commission in Pakistan, Pakistan High Commission in Sri Lanka and Department of Commerce, together with the Department of Agriculture (DoA) and National Plant Quarantine Service (NPQS), facilitated the export.
Pakistan, with a population of around 252 million, is considered a high-potential market for Sri Lankan pineapples. The country imports around 2,000 to 5,000 metric tonnes of pineapples annually, valued at approximately US$10 million.
Thailand and the Philippines are currently among the major suppliers to the Pakistani market. Sri Lankan authorities expect local pineapples to secure a greater share of the market due to their quality, freshness and distinctive taste, as well as the geographical proximity between the two countries.
As part of the approval process, Mohammad Aqeed, an entomology researcher attached to Pakistan’s NPPO, visited Sri Lanka and inspected selected pineapple cultivation sites and packing facilities.
Alan Friday, 21 August 2026 07:47 PM
Hope now pineapples will not become a fruit only the rich can afford and not dream for the poor locals.
Saliya Saturday, 22 August 2026 02:39 AM
Good News. Explore more markets to create an export oriented economy
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