The keenu industry in Pakistan is grappling with a crisis, putting $22 million in keenu exports at risk. Reports suggest a potential 50% decline in keenu exports, leading to the closure of 50% of processing factories. This downturn in export orders raises concerns about significant financial losses in foreign exchange, jeopardizing the employment of four lakh people associated with the keenu industry. Additionally, the substantial investment of 300 billion rupees in processing factories is at risk.
Waheed Ahmed, Patron General of the Pakistan Fruit and Vegetable Exporters Association, expressed deep concern about the situation. He noted that this season’s keenu export might be limited to one and a half to two and a half million tons. The export of kino (another term for keenu) is estimated to contribute $100 million in foreign exchange. The 60-year-old variety of kino has been affected by diseases, reducing the export quality to less than five percent.
Waheed Ahmed highlighted the need for work on new varieties, emphasizing that if steps are not taken, keenu exports might come to a complete halt within two years. The crisis in the keenu industry underscores the importance of addressing quality issues and exploring alternatives to sustain this vital sector in Pakistan.
