Punjab Nears Becoming Potato Exporting Province in Global Market: Maryam Nawaz

Lahore: Punjab is close to becoming a potato-exporting province in the global market, as potato production has recorded a significant 25 percent increase compared to last year, with all previous records broken.

According to official figures, Punjab has achieved a historic potato output of 12 million metric tons. Practical efforts for agricultural cooperation between the Punjab government and Kazakhstan are currently underway, aimed at opening new export avenues.

Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif has sought permission from the Prime Minister of Pakistan to export potatoes in order to prevent the record production from going to waste. Important progress regarding potato exports is expected today during meetings between a high-level Kazakh delegation currently visiting Pakistan and the Punjab government.

The Punjab government is in continuous contact with the federal government to ensure effective measures for potato exports. Steps are being taken to stabilize potato prices and ensure fair compensation for farmers by gaining access to new international export markets.

Maryam Nawaz Sharif said that access to new global markets is being secured for potato exports, with Kazakhstan being the first step and more international agricultural markets to follow soon. She stressed that Punjab’s record potato production will not be sold at throwaway prices.

The Chief Minister said she would not leave farmers at the mercy of middlemen or market forces. She added that the Punjab government, in coordination with the federal government, is taking practical steps to secure new export markets to ensure better returns for farmers.

Maryam Nawaz Sharif expressed confidence that the bumper potato crop would not become a source of concern for farmers but would instead bring prosperity and economic relief.