Overview
Plums (Aloo Bukhara in Urdu) are among Pakistan’s premium summer fruits, known for their rich flavor, juicy texture, and vibrant colors. Grown in high-altitude regions, Pakistani plums develop a natural sweetness and firm structure, making them ideal for both fresh consumption and drying.
They are widely exported to Gulf countries, Central Asia, and South Asia, where there is a strong demand for seasonal stone fruits.
Key Growing Areas
Pakistani plums thrive in:
- Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP): Swat, Dir, Mansehra
- Balochistan: Quetta, Ziarat
- Northern Punjab: Murree, Rawalpindi
The cool climate and fertile soils of these regions produce plums with enhanced flavor and shelf life.
Seasonal Availability
| Region | Harvest Period |
|---|---|
| KP & Balochistan | May – August |
| Punjab | May – June |
Popular Varieties
| Variety Name | Color | Taste & Use |
|---|---|---|
| Black Plum | Dark purple to black | Juicy, sweet-tart, fresh or dried |
| Red Plum | Red skin, yellow flesh | Mildly sweet, eaten fresh |
| Green Plum | Light green | Tangy, used in chutneys & pickles |
| Yellow/Golden Plum | Golden-yellow | Honey-sweet, for desserts |
Product Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Size | 35–55 mm (diameter) |
| Texture | Soft to firm |
| Shelf Life | 7–10 days (fresh) |
| Taste Profile | Sweet-tart, aromatic |
| Nutrients | Vitamin C, potassium, antioxidants |
Packaging & Export Standards
| Detail | Description |
|---|---|
| Packaging | 2kg, 5kg cartons or clamshells |
| Packing Method | Graded, wrapped, and ventilated cartons |
| Temperature | 0–2°C (cold chain recommended) |
| Container Load | 18–20 MT per 40ft reefer container |
| Certifications | Phytosanitary, ISO, Global GAP (optional) |
Export Destinations
- UAE, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia
- Afghanistan, Iran, Central Asia
- Malaysia, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka
- Ethnic markets in UK, EU, USA (for dried plums)
Why Choose Pakistani Plums?
- Grown in natural, pesticide-minimal environments
- Naturally sweet and juicy with a soft bite
- Competitive pricing vs. Turkish, Chinese varieties
- Available in fresh and dried forms
- Ideal for fresh fruit markets, juice and jam industry
Conclusion
Plums from Pakistan offer excellent export potential due to their high quality, seasonal availability, and market demand. With attractive taste, texture, and color, they are ideal for wholesalers, fruit retailers, and food processors seeking a reliable and flavorful stone fruit.
