The Government of Pakistan is exploring the possibility of establishing a new logistics route through China to export potatoes to Central Asian countries. The initiative comes as traditional trade corridors have become increasingly difficult to use due to regional tensions, border restrictions, and rising transportation costs.
The issue was discussed during a meeting of the committee responsible for overseeing potato exports. The meeting was chaired by Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, and brought together government officials, exporters, and representatives of the agricultural sector.
Participants highlighted that several traditional trade routes used by Pakistani exporters have become less reliable in recent months. One of the key concerns is the unstable situation in Iran, which has made certain transit routes less secure for international trade. At the same time, the closure of the border with Afghanistan has significantly limited Pakistan’s land access to Central Asian markets.
As a result, exporters and government authorities are actively looking for alternative logistics solutions. One of the options under consideration is the use of a transport corridor through China, which could provide a more stable and secure pathway for potato shipments to Central Asian countries.
The Pakistani government has already initiated discussions with relevant authorities to facilitate transportation along this corridor and simplify procedures for traders. If implemented successfully, the new route could help maintain export volumes and protect farmers and exporters from potential losses.
Another key issue raised during the meeting was the sharp increase in transportation and logistics costs. Regional instability has pushed freight charges significantly higher, making exports more expensive and affecting the competitiveness of Pakistani potatoes in international markets.
To address this challenge, the government is considering measures such as freight subsidies or other forms of financial support for exporters. These steps could help reduce the financial burden on exporters and maintain Pakistan’s position in global potato trade.
Industry experts believe that developing alternative logistics corridors will be essential for sustaining Pakistan’s potato exports and ensuring stable access to international markets in the coming years
