The first commercial shipment of fresh Sri Lankan pineapples arrived in Karachi and was welcomed at an inauguration ceremony held on Sunday, 6 September 2026, at Pure Fresh Market, Karachi.
The initiative to secure market access for Sri Lankan fresh pineapples to Pakistan was spearheaded by the Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Karachi in close coordination with the Department of Commerce of Sri Lanka. The successful completion of the required phytosanitary approvals was achieved through close collaboration between the National Plant Protection Organization (NPPO) of Pakistan and the National Plant Quarantine Service of Sri Lanka.
Addressing the gathering, Mr. Sanjeewa Pattiwila, Consul General of Sri Lanka in Karachi, stated that the arrival of the first shipment marks a significant milestone in strengthening Sri Lanka–Pakistan trade relations and introducing Sri Lanka's premium-quality fresh pineapples to the Pakistani market. He expressed confidence that this achievement would pave the way for increased bilateral agricultural trade and create new opportunities for exporters and importers in both countries.
The inauguration ceremony brought together business leaders, members of the diplomatic community, social media influencers and other distinguished guests, who had the opportunity to taste the freshly arrived Sri Lankan pineapples. Guests highly appreciated the freshness, sweetness and quality of the fruit, with many welcoming the introduction of Sri Lankan pineapples to the Pakistani market. The inaugural event attracted significant media attention, with extensive coverage by print, electronic and social media, further enhancing the visibility of Sri Lankan fresh pineapples in the Pakistani market.
As part of the market access process, a technical expert from the NPPO of Pakistan visited Sri Lanka in July 2026 to inspect pineapple production and plant quarantine systems. The visit was facilitated by the Sri Lanka Export Development Board in collaboration with the National Plant Quarantine Service of Sri Lanka.
The Consulate General of Sri Lanka in Karachi extends its sincere appreciation to all institutions and stakeholders whose collective efforts made this initiative possible. Special appreciation is extended to the Sri Lankan exporter, the Pakistani importer, and the Pakistan Fresh Fruits and Vegetable Exporters, Importers and Merchants Association (PFVA), particularly its President, Mr. Aslam Pakhali, for their commitment and support in successfully launching the first commercial shipment.
Sri Lanka looks forward to further strengthening bilateral cooperation in the agricultural and food sectors and to promoting a wider range of Sri Lankan fresh and value-added products in the Pakistani market.
