LAHORE: The Pakistan China Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry called for international certification and modern processing technology to expand Pakistan’s honey exports to China, officials said following a think tank session at its secretariat on Thursday.
PCJCCI President Nazir Hussain said Pakistan’s honey sector had significant untapped potential but required structural reforms and modernisation to compete in high-value markets.Pakistani honey currently sells for $20-25 per kilogramme, but prices could rise to as much as $100 per kilogramme with internationally recognised certification and improved packaging, he said. Despite its quality and competitive pricing compared with established global brands, including those from New Zealand, exports remain constrained by the absence of recognised certification, he added.
Hussain said China’s certification and laboratory infrastructure could serve as a model for Pakistan. Joint ventures with Chinese companies would help establish modern testing facilities and strengthen export capacity. Pakistan produces about 20,000 tonnes of honey annually, and certified exports could significantly increase output and revenues, he said.
He called for internationally accredited laboratories and large-scale processing units to align the sector with global standards. China, the world’s largest honey producer and exporter, could support technology transfer in filtration and packaging, he added.
Senior Vice President Mansoor Saeed Sheikh said Chinese companies were prepared to assist in upgrading Pakistan’s honey production infrastructure, including filtration, sterilisation and temperature control systems. With government support, the industry could meet the moisture and quality standards required for access to the Chinese market, he said.
Vice President Zafar Iqbal, citing data from the National Bank of Pakistan, said Pakistan exported $6.351 million worth of natural honey between July and November 2020, with Saudi Arabia the largest buyer. He said internationally certified products could also help Pakistan access premium European markets.
