Pakistan secures Russian market access for Punjab potatoes, targeting a 12-million-ton surplus
The strategic implications of Pakistan’s growing trade ties with Russia extend beyond potatoes.
PAKISTAN – Pakistan has secured market access for potato exports from Punjab to the Russian Federation, effective April 8, 2026, following approval by the Russian Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance.
The approval lifts phytosanitary restrictions that had been in place since May 2025, opening a significant new market for Pakistani produce. In the initial stage, imports were authorized by three exporters: M/S Chase International, M/S Zahid Kinnow Grinding & Waxing Plant, and M/S National Fruit.
Shabana Aziz, Head of the Pakistan Trade Mission in Moscow, said that additional companies are expected to be registered. “With the support of the TDAP and PHDEC teams, virtual B2B meetings are being arranged to help Pakistani exporters fully avail themselves of this emerging opportunity,” she said.
To begin with, Pakistan is currently producing approximately 12 million tons of potatoes. Therefore, the opening of the Russian market is expected to absorb surplus stocks, stabilize domestic potato prices, support farming communities, and boost export earnings.
This development is coordinated across multiple agencies: the Ministry of National Food Security & Research, the Department of Plant Protection, TDAP, the Pakistan Horticulture Development & Export Company, and Pakistan’s Trade Mission in Moscow. This inter-agency effort aligns with the goals of federal and provincial authorities to diversify export markets and strengthen bilateral trade with Russia.
Additionally, the Punjab government has sought federal support to reduce freight charges for potato and kinnow exports, including shipments via Iran, to address constraints faced by growers and exporters. Lower shipping costs would improve competitiveness in Russian markets and potentially open additional export corridors through neighbouring countries.
Syed Ashiq Hussain Kirmani, Minister for Agriculture in Punjab, confirmed that the provincial government is addressing the challenges faced by potato and kinnow growers, implementing measures at multiple levels to support the export of both commodities.
The strategic implications of Pakistan’s growing trade ties with Russia extend beyond potatoes. Successful market access for Punjab potatoes could serve as a template for other horticultural products, including kinnow, mangoes, and vegetables.
For investors, Pakistan’s export diversification strategy demonstrates how countries with agricultural surpluses can leverage diplomatic and regulatory engagement to access new markets, reducing dependence on traditional buyers while stabilizing domestic prices through export-led demand.
As virtual B2B meetings connect regional suppliers with Russian buyers, Pakistani exporters are well placed to build sustained trade relationships that extend beyond the current season.
Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.
