Russia Lifts Potato Import Ban from Pakistan's Punjab

Russia's Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance (Russia===Federal Service for Veterinary and Phytosanitary Surveillance) has lifted phytosanitary restrictions on potato imports from Pakistan's Punjab region, effective April 8, 2026. This decision follows coordinated efforts by various Pakistani government bodies, including the Pakistan===Ministry of National Food Security & Research, the Pakistan===Department of Plant Protection, the Pakistan===Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), and Pakistan's Trade Mission in Moscow, to address previous concerns about pests. The move comes as Pakistan is experiencing a bumper potato harvest, with production estimated at 12 million tons, creating a surplus. The new market access is expected to help absorb this surplus, stabilize domestic prices, provide financial relief to farmers, and generate valuable foreign exchange earnings for Pakistan. Initially, three Pakistani exporters—Chase International, Zahid Kinnow Grinding & Waxing Plant, and National Fruit—have been authorized to export, with more companies expected to be registered soon. Virtual B2B meetings are being arranged to facilitate Pakistani exporters in leveraging this opportunity. The Punjab government had previously sought federal support to reduce freight charges for potato and kinnow exports, particularly via Iran, to address logistical challenges.