Malaysia Lifts Lab Testing for Pakistani Oranges

Pakistan’s citrus industry has received a major boost with the removal of laboratory testing requirements for the export of oranges to Malaysia. This development is seen as a significant breakthrough, which will ease the challenges faced by Pakistani exporters. The decision follows efforts by the Sargodha Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) and government officials to resolve the issue.

Challenges Posed by Inspection Requirements

In November 2024, Malaysia’s Food Safety and Quality Division (FSQD) introduced mandatory inspections for all orange shipments arriving at Malaysian ports. These inspections required laboratory testing, which created substantial hurdles for Pakistani exporters. The additional testing procedures delayed shipments and added significant costs, impacting the competitiveness of Pakistan’s oranges in the Malaysian market.

Sargodha, a key region in Pakistan’s citrus production, was particularly affected by the new measures. Exporters struggled to meet the stringent requirements, and many shipments faced delays, raising concerns about the future of orange exports to Malaysia. People saw the situation as a threat to Pakistan’s position as a key supplier of citrus fruits in the region.

Efforts to Resolve the Issue

Khawaja Yasir Qayyum, President of the Sargodha Chamber of Commerce and Industry, took swift action to address the problem. He engaged with Pakistan’s High Commission in Malaysia to raise concerns about the inspection procedures. Qayyum then met with Federal Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan to discuss potential solutions.

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During discussions, Qayyum pointed out the negative impact of mandatory lab testing on Pakistan’s citrus trade. He stressed the need to remove the inspection requirement to support industry growth and maintain exports. The Pakistani government worked through diplomacy and trade efforts to resolve the issue.

Positive Outcome for Pakistan’s Citrus Industry

Thanks to Qayyum, the High Commission, and Minister Jam Kamal Khan, the FSQD has removed the lab testing requirement for orange exports.

This decision is expected to significantly benefit Pakistan’s citrus industry, which has struggled to maintain its market share in Malaysia.

With the testing requirement lifted, Pakistani exporters can now ship more efficiently, reducing delays and costs. This move improves export opportunities and enhances the competitiveness of Pakistani oranges in Malaysia’s growing market for high-quality citrus fruits.

As a result, Pakistan’s citrus industry is set to boost exports to Malaysia, marking a key achievement for the agricultural sector.

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