ISLAMABAD: A meeting of the sub-committee constituted on the directions of the Prime Minister to enhance the export of kinnow and citrus fruits was held under the chairmanship of Minister of State for Health Dr Mukhtar Bharath.
The meeting was attended by 41 representatives of relevant institutions and reviewed key measures aimed at increasing Pakistani kinnow exports and addressing issues faced by exporters.
In line with the Prime Minister’s instructions, the meeting examined the implementation of a 60 percent tariff concession at Port Qasim. Participants also discussed steps to improve coordination among federal ministries, government departments and the private sector for the promotion of agricultural exports.
Dr Mukhtar Bharath directed the relevant authorities to ensure facilitation for kinnow exporters and take measures to improve access to international markets.
The meeting considered a proposal to ensure the availability of daily convoys for the transportation of fruits at the Iran border. Another proposal was discussed for introducing a green channel to ensure swift customs clearance of perishable agricultural products.
Directions were also issued to take measures for the extension of exporters’ financial instruments before November 15. According to the State Bank, the maximum prescribed period for repatriation of export proceeds is 120 days.
Dr Mukhtar Bharath directed the Pakistan Horticulture Development and Export Company to prepare a five-year roadmap within 15 days for value addition and increasing exports of kinnow and other citrus fruits.
The meeting also considered a proposal to operate a weekly refrigerated freight train from Sargodha to Karachi and Quetta. The Ministry of Railways was directed to prepare a feasibility report for the refrigerated freight train.
Relevant institutions were further asked to ensure immediate steps to resolve issues related to import duty in the Philippines and additional valuation matters in Russia.
