TDAP, PHDE explore potato export opportunities

KARACHI: The Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP) and Pakistan Horticulture Development & Export Company (PHDE) convened a special session on Thursday with 101 registered Pakistani exporters authorised by Russian authorities to export table potatoes. The session highlighted the successful lifting of the temporary ban on Pakistani potatoes by the Russian National Plant Protection Organisation (NPPO) and explored immediate export opportunities in the Russian market. Dr Khalid Zafar, ex-Entomologist (Quarantine), Department of Plant Protection, delivered a detailed technical presentation on quarantine pest management, and the multi-stakeholder efforts that led to the resumption of trade. Shabana Mumtaz, Minister of Trade and Investment at the Pakistan Embassy in Moscow, briefed participants on market opportunities in Russia and confirmed plans for virtual B2B meetings with top Russian importers, to be facilitated with TDAP support. She has also invited top buyers of Russia in FoodAg exhibition, scheduled at Karachi from 23-26 November, 2026. Athar Khokhar, Director General (Agro & Food Division), TDAP and CEO PHDEC, stated that due to the GCC conflict and closure of the Afghanistan border, Pakistan’s potato exports have faced a significant decline. The lifting of the Russian ban opens vital new avenues for our exporters. With the support of DPP, the TDAP is actively working on registering additional potato varieties for different markets. He encouraged exporters to focus on processed potato varieties, which are in higher demand in the Russian market. Copyright Business Recorder, 2026

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