Pakistan horticulture exports could rise to $7bn with help
Agriculture is the mainstay of Pakistan’s economy. It accounts for about 20% of gross domestic product (GDP), but since 50% of the labour force depends on this sector, its importance is much more than just its size in the economy.
Punjab contributes a major share in the agricultural economy of the country. It has about 57% of the total cultivated and 69% of the total crop area of Pakistan. Among the fruits, mango accounts for 66%, citrus more than 95%, guava 82% and dates 34% of the total national production of these fruits.
Experts say horticulture exports could grow to iconic proportions and touch $7 billion in the next decade if research and development (R&D) is vigorously pursued and the required infrastructure is built.
Unfortunately, Pakistan’s share right now in global horticulture exports is just 0.3% despite being an agricultural economy.
Read more at tribune.com.pk.
