Overview
Cherries are one of Pakistan’s most prized temperate fruits, grown in the cool northern highlands. Known for their vibrant red color, firm texture, and rich sweetness, Pakistani cherries have carved a niche in both domestic and international markets. Their short season and high quality make them a premium export product, especially to Gulf and Central Asian countries.
Key Growing Regions
Cherries are cultivated in the mountainous and semi-mountainous areas of:
- Gilgit-Baltistan (Hunza, Skardu, Ghizer)
- Balochistan (Ziarat, Kalat, Quetta)
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (Swat, Chitral)
The natural climate — with cold winters and mild summers — is ideal for producing cherries with intense color and excellent taste.
Harvest Season
| Region | Harvest Time |
|---|---|
| Balochistan | Late May – June |
| Gilgit-Baltistan | June – July |
| Swat & Chitral | June – July |
Cherries from Balochistan reach the market early, while GB offers a later and longer window, allowing multiple waves of supply.
Popular Varieties
| Variety Name | Color | Taste Profile | Market Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black Cherry | Dark red/black | Sweet, slightly tart | Fresh, juices, preserves |
| Red Cherry | Bright red | Mildly sweet, aromatic | Eaten fresh, desserts |
| White Cherry (rare) | Yellow-pinkish | Soft, subtle sweetness | Premium gifting segment |
Fruit Specifications
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 18–26 mm (diameter) |
| Skin | Smooth, shiny, red to black |
| Flesh | Firm, juicy, low fiber |
| Brix Level | 14–20 (high sweetness) |
| Shelf Life | 5–10 days (cold chain) |
| Nutritional Value | Rich in Vitamin C, antioxidants, iron |
Packaging & Export Standards
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Pack Sizes | 0.5 kg, 1 kg clamshells or punnets |
| Bulk Cartons | 2 kg, 5 kg telescopic boxes |
| Storage Temp. | 0°C – 2°C |
| Humidity | 90–95% (cold chain recommended) |
| Container Load | ~14–16 MT in 40ft reefer container |
| Certifications | Phytosanitary, ISO, GAP (as required) |
Fruits are harvested manually, sorted, and packed under food-grade, hygienic conditions.
Target Export Markets
- United Arab Emirates
- Saudi Arabia
- Oman
- Qatar
- Iran
- Afghanistan
- Malaysia (emerging)
- Central Asian States (seasonal high demand)
Why Choose Cherries from Pakistan?
- Grown in pure mountain air, free from industrial pollution
- Naturally sweet and vibrant in color
- Limited supply makes them exclusive and profitable
- Cold-chain compatible for long-distance transport
- Available in multiple grades for supermarkets, fruit importers, and high-end grocers
Conclusion
Though seasonal and limited in volume, Pakistani cherries represent high-margin, high-demand produce for discerning fruit buyers and markets that value freshness and exclusivity. With expanding cold chain infrastructure and rising global interest, cherries from Pakistan offer excellent returns for exporters and importers alike.
