Potato production in Punjab has increased by 25% compared to last year, reaching a historic level of around 12 million metric tons, according to official sources.
The bumper crop has prompted Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to formally seek approval from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for potato exports.
Move Toward International Markets
Punjab authorities are in contact with the federal government to ensure timely export arrangements. A high-level delegation from Kazakhstan is expected to hold discussions with Punjab officials, marking a potential first step toward access to new global markets.
Protecting Farmers’ Interests
The Chief Minister said the record harvest will not be allowed to flood local markets at extremely low prices. She emphasized that farmers will not be left at the mercy of middlemen and market pressures.
Economic Impact
A strong export drive could:
- Stabilize local prices
- Increase farmers’ income
- Strengthen the agricultural economy
- Expand Pakistan’s presence in global agri-markets
Officials described the bumper potato crop as a sign of agricultural progress and an opportunity for rural prosperity rather than a burden.
