Pakistan’s agricultural exports received a major boost as the Russian Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance (Rosselkhoznadzor) approved the import of potatoes from Punjab into the Russian Federation, effective April 8, 2026, according to a statement by the Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP).
The approval comes after Russia lifted phytosanitary restrictions that had been in place since May 2025. Officials say this step will help strengthen Pakistan’s agricultural export capacity.
In the first phase, Russia has permitted imports from three Pakistani exporters: Chase International, Zahid Kinnow Grinding & Waxing Plant, and National Fruit.
Shabana Aziz, Head of Pakistan’s Trade Mission in Moscow, said efforts are underway to register more companies to increase export volumes. She also noted that TDAP and PHDEC are organizing virtual business-to-business meetings to help exporters benefit from the opportunity.
Pakistan is currently experiencing a bumper potato crop, estimated at around 12 million tons. Access to the Russian market is expected to help reduce surplus stock, stabilize local prices, support farmers, and improve foreign exchange earnings.
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Officials said the development reflects coordinated work by the Ministry of National Food Security & Research, Department of Plant Protection, TDAP, PHDEC, and Pakistan’s Trade Mission in Moscow. It also supports efforts to expand export destinations and strengthen trade ties with Russia.
Meanwhile, the federal government has already permitted Punjab farmers to export potatoes and kinnow through alternative routes. This decision follows repeated calls from growers for support amid excess supply and weak local demand.
Punjab authorities have also urged the federal government to lower freight costs for exports, especially through Iran, to ease logistical pressures for exporters.