Pakistan's Onion Exports Plunge Amid Indian Market Surge

Pakistan's onion export sector has experienced a significant downturn, with export volumes dropping to nearly 10 percent of last year's levels. This sharp decline is attributed to a surge in Indian onion supplies flooding international markets, familiar with the matter.

Shoaib Ahmad Basra, who manages a major fruit and vegetable company, stated that the influx of Indian onions has crowded out Pakistani shipments. He noted that onions are produced throughout the year in Pakistan, with staggered harvests across Sindh, Balochistan, Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

According to Basra, Sindh and Balochistan are responsible for roughly a third of the country's total onion output between June and November, forming the backbone of Pakistan's export capacity. Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa contribute an additional 27 percent during off-peak periods, ensuring a steady supply throughout the year.

In previous years, Pakistan's onion exporters benefited when competing suppliers faced shortages, allowing them to capture a larger share of the market. However, Basra said that such opportunities have largely disappeared due to the current oversupply from India.

Despite the overall slump, there remains demand for Pakistani red onions in certain parts of Asia and the Middle East. Varieties such as Phulkara, known for their medium-to-large bulbs, uniform red skin, and pungent flavor, continue to attract buyers in these regions.

Industry representatives have expressed concern over the current situation, emphasizing the need for strategies to regain lost market share. They highlight the importance of maintaining quality and exploring new markets to counter the impact of increased competition from neighboring countries.