Sargodha, Pakistan's citrus capital, has the potential to become a major player in the global market. Known for producing some of the juiciest kinnow mandarins, the region needs fertile soil, favorable weather, and a longstanding tradition of citrus farming. Yet, despite this, I can’t help but feel we’re not tapping into its full potential. While kinnows are gaining ground in markets like Russia and the Middle East, we’re still not seeing the kind of widespread success in Europe and North America that could truly elevate Pakistan’s position in the global citrus market.
This year, kinnow mandarins were barely seen in local markets. The reason? A massive drop in production due to a virus outbreak, not only reduced yield but also led to whatever was cultivated being exported only. The impact is serious - Sargodha’s citrus cultivation area has shrunk from 4.5 lakh acres to 3.5 lakh acres, and the remaining orchards are still under threat. If this decline continues, we risk losing our position as a leading citrus producer.
To restore the lost 1 lakh acres, we need 2.5 crore new plants. But this isn’t just about regaining lost land; it’s about revamping citrus farming to focus on high-demand, export-quality varieties like seedless kinnow. While citrus is grown across Punjab, KPK, and Potohar, Sargodha is the heart of Pakistan’s kinnow industry, producing 80% of the country’s kinnow. With its long shelf life, thick peel, and high sweetness, Sargodha’s kinnow is ideal for export—yet the sector remains neglected. The government must act now to support citrus farmers before the situation worsens.
The problem isn’t the fruit - it’s the systems in place. Outdated farming methods, poor post-harvest handling, and inconsistent quality standards are holding us back. To compete globally, we need to meet the rigorous standards of international markets. Without this, we’ll continue to struggle with rejections, especially in high-demand areas like the European Union, where quality control is paramount.
If we implement strategic interventions in farming, infrastructure, and value addition, we can push citrus exports to USD 1 billion
Positive steps are being taken. Through initiatives like the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), the government has prioritised agricultural exports. Modernisation efforts in Sargodha, such as improved cold storage facilities and farmer support for export-friendly techniques—are commendable. Trade agreements with China have also opened new export avenues. Additionally, trade agreements with countries like China open new doors for kinnow exports, which is a much-needed boost. But these efforts need greater scale and urgency if we want to compete with major citrus exporters like Egypt, China, and Turkey.
But real transformation needs to happen at multiple levels. Sargodha Dry Port could be a game-changer, handling 15,000 to 20,000 containers annually and reducing reliance on Karachi brokers. A fully operational port would streamline exports, cut costs, and create year-round jobs, also benefiting industries like Chakwal’s cement and Khushab’s pink salt.
A Citrus Expo Center along the motorway could further boost trade by providing a dedicated marketplace for dealers, factories, and exporters to showcase and sell kinnow, increasing global visibility.
A citrus industrial zone is needed to truly compete internationally, with processing plants meeting strict global standards. Enforcing quarantine and phytosanitary laws would enhance export capacity and help Pakistan rival top citrus exporters like Egypt.
Moreover, The industry’s long-term success depends on empowering farmers. A Citrus Development Zone should be established to provide training and capacity building. Farmers must learn modern techniques, understand international standards, and transition from growers to exporters. Common processing facilities should be set up every 500 acres, funded through subsidised government loans. If farmers own and operate these facilities, they will have greater control over value addition, like producing fresh juices and citrus-based products which will open new revenue streams. These facilities should come with a three-year training program to ensure farmers know how to manage and sustain their businesses effectively.
Citrus trade in Pakistan is already significant, much like mango exports, but we’re still far from realising its true potential. If we implement strategic interventions in farming, infrastructure, and value addition, we can push citrus exports to USD 1 billion.
Sargodha’s citrus industry is at a turning point. We can transform Pakistan into a global citrus leader with the right infrastructure, policy support, and farmer education. The government is making important strides, but long-term commitment from both policymakers and the private sector is key to unlocking our full potential.
I urge Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to take immediate notice of this crisis. If we want to save Sargodha’s citrus industry, maximise exports, and boost foreign reserves, the government must step in with strong policies and direct action. The time to act is now.