BEIJING: General Administration of Customs of China (GACC) has approved sixty more orchards from Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) to export cherry to China, said Commercial Counsellor Ghulam Qadir at the Pakistani Embassy in Beijing on Friday.

Ghulam Qadir said the approval of the Pakistani cherry orchards by Chinese customs holds significant potential for the agricultural sector in Gilgit Baltistan, where cherry cultivation is a prominent industry.

“The endorsement by Chinese customs signifies that the cherries from Pakistan meet the required standards and regulations for export to China.

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This not only opens up new avenues for trade but also showcases the quality and taste of Pakistani cherries to a wider international market,“ he added.

Arman Shah, CEO of Hashwan Group, and Arman Shah Farm, which is the largest farm approved by Chinese Customs, told China Economic Net (CEN) that the collaboration between China and Pakistan in promoting agricultural exports, particularly cherries from Gilgit Baltistan, highlights the mutual benefits derived from such partnerships. It not only boosts economic growth but also strengthens bilateral ties.

He further told that GB cherries have already been exported to other countries with the major market being the Middle East, adding that this year the price of export was between Rs 700-1,000 per kg.

“Gilgit Baltistan produces more than 4,000 tons of quality cherries in every season. I also have cold storage facility which helps me export even after the season”, he mentioned.

“The approval of Pakistani cherry orchards by Chinese customs signifies a step towards enhanced trade relations and serves as a testament to the quality of produce originating from Gilgit Baltistan”, he mentioned. It is to be noted 15 cold storage and packing facilities are also approved by Chinese customs that can export cherries to China.