Climate Change and Smog Slash Kinnow Production in Pakistan by 35%
As a result, local prices are projected to increase by 10%, further straining consumers.
In Pakistan, the combination of climate change and persistent smog has led to a staggering 35% reduction in kinnow production this season, significantly impacting the country’s agricultural economy.
With the expected output now at approximately 1.5 million tons, this decline poses serious challenges for exporters who are already grappling with a 50% drop in citrus exports over the past five years.
The Sargodha district, renowned for its citrus production, has been particularly hard hit. Waheed Ahmed, head of the Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Exporters Association, highlighted that the prolonged heat waves and delayed cold weather have not only delayed the kinnow season but also adversely affected the fruit’s quality and sweetness.
As a result, local prices are projected to increase by 10%, further straining consumers.
The ageing kinnow variety, which has been cultivated for over 60 years, is increasingly vulnerable to climatic changes and diseases. Experts warn that without urgent research and development to introduce new varieties, Pakistan’s kinnow exports could face a complete halt within three years. This situation is exacerbated by logistical hurdles and increased competition from countries like China and Turkey, which have ramped up their own citrus production.
The government has been criticized for its approach to tackling air pollution, focusing on penalizing farmers for stubble burning rather than addressing the root causes of smog, such as vehicular emissions. As half of the kinnow processing plants have already shut down due to financial losses, the livelihoods of approximately 300,000 workers are at risk.
With the looming threat of climate change continuing to impact agricultural productivity, stakeholders are urging immediate action to safeguard Pakistan’s vital kinnow industry before it faces irreversible damage.
