Punjab potato exports expected to reach global markets as the province moves closer to becoming an international supplier following a major increase in production this year. Official data shows potato output in Punjab has risen by around 25 percent compared to last year, marking one of the largest increases on record and strengthening the case for exports to stabilize prices and protect farmers’ incomes.
Record Potato Production in Punjab
Punjab has recorded a historic potato harvest of nearly 12 million metric tons, breaking all previous production records. The bumper crop has created both opportunity and pressure, as surplus supply risks price instability if not managed through timely exports. Provincial authorities say the scale of production makes international market access essential to prevent losses and ensure fair returns for growers.
Agriculture officials confirm that improved farming practices, better seed quality, and favorable weather conditions contributed to the sharp rise in output. The government considers the current season a turning point for Punjab’s agricultural export potential, particularly for staple crops such as potatoes.
Export Efforts and Federal Coordination
To prevent wastage of surplus produce, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has formally requested export approval from the federal government. Provincial officials remain in continuous contact with federal authorities to ensure regulatory clearances and trade permissions are issued without delay.
The Punjab government says exports are necessary not only to manage supply but also to maintain market balance and protect farmers from sudden price drops. Officials emphasize that export decisions are being aligned with national trade policies to ensure long-term sustainability.
Engagement With Kazakhstan and New Markets
A high-level delegation from Kazakhstan is currently in Pakistan, and discussions with the Punjab government are expected to lead to concrete progress on potato exports. Authorities indicate that Kazakhstan could become the first international destination for Punjab-grown potatoes under the new export push.
Officials say this engagement is part of a broader strategy to open multiple global markets. After initial agreements, further outreach is planned to other international agricultural markets to diversify export destinations and reduce dependency on a single buyer.
Price Stability and Farmer Protection
Punjab authorities state that export initiatives are being designed to stabilize potato prices in local markets. By reducing excess supply, the government aims to prevent sharp declines that often leave farmers selling produce below cost.
Maryam Nawaz Sharif has reiterated that farmers will not be left at the mercy of middlemen or volatile market forces. She stated that the provincial government is working closely with the federal administration to secure reliable export channels that ensure growers receive appropriate compensation for their produce.
Long-Term Agricultural Strategy
Officials describe the potato export plan as part of a broader agricultural reform agenda focused on value creation, market access, and farmer welfare. Alongside exports, efforts are underway to improve storage facilities, logistics, and post-harvest handling to meet international quality standards.
The Punjab government believes that strengthening export capacity will encourage farmers to invest more confidently in future crops. Authorities also note that lessons learned from potato exports could be applied to other agricultural products, further expanding Punjab’s presence in global food markets.
Outlook for Punjab Potato Exports
With record production, active government involvement, and growing international interest, Punjab potato exports are expected to gain momentum in the coming months. Officials stress that sustained coordination between provincial and federal authorities will be critical to turning current expectations into long-term export success.
If approvals and agreements proceed as planned, Punjab could soon emerge as a regular supplier in global potato markets, transforming surplus production into economic opportunity for farmers and the wider agricultural sector.