The mark set for the export of dates during the current fiscal year is 0.1 million tons, provided the commodity is saved from the flash floods in the country, Business Recorder learnt Thursday. Pakistan is the second largest exporter of dates in the world and its major buyers include Canada, USA, Germany, UK, Denmark, Australia, India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, South Africa, Dubai, Japan, China, South Korea, North Korea etc.
Out of the total production of 0.6 million tones of dates in Pakistan, 0.4 - 0.5 million tones are consumed locally, a trader Mohammad Irfan apprised Business Recorder on Thursday. He also said the trading of dates during Ramazan provides additional opportunities to thousands of people to earn extra money, as during the holy month a number of vendors are engaged in this business.
Pakistan produces a variety of dates, which includes Aseel, Karbala, Fasli and Kupro from Sindh, while Muzawati, Begum Jangi, Jaan Swore, Kehraba and Rabai from Balochistan. Dhakki and Gulistan from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and a seedless variety from Punjab. A locally produced variety of date - 'Khajji' is in great demand during Ramazan.