Pakistan, endowed with diverse natural and mineral resourcÂes, boasts an annual salt producÂtion of about 2 million tons, with the Khewra Salt Mine being a priÂmary contributor. As the world’s second-largest salt mine, Khewra holds an estimated reserve of 220 million tons of rock salt, drawing both industrial significance and tourist interest.
Among Pakistan’s unique salt vaÂrieties, Himalayan pink salt stands out. With a distinctive pink hue derived from iron oxide and othÂer minerals, this salt is renowned for its perceived health benefits. Widely used for culinary purposes and as a decorative element, it has gained popularity both domestiÂcally and internationally, particuÂlarly in the USA. Pakistan proudly holds the title of the world’s largÂest producer and exporter of pink salt, intending to register it as a Geographical Indication to safeÂguard its authenticity and quality.
Nevertheless, the country enÂcounters challenges in advancing its salt industry, notably in areas such as marketing, value addition, and industry development. These challenges impact the global perÂception and competitiveness of Pakistani salt, limiting profitabilÂity and product diversification. In particular, insufficient marketÂing and branding, especially for pink salt, contribute to lower sellÂing prices when exported, only to be rebranded and resold at highÂer prices by other countries. To unlock its full salt potential and compete globally, Pakistan must enhance salt quality, implement effective marketing strategies, and focus on value addition.
AZEEM HAKRO
UMERKOT