Pakistan Ensures SPS Compliance, Blocks Non-Compliant Mango Exports

Minister for National Food Security and Research, Rana Tanveer Hussain, has reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to strict compliance with Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) regulations, calling them the cornerstone of international trade in agricultural products. “These rules are not a formality; they are the lifeline of our export system, safeguarding food safety, public health, and the biosecurity of ecosystems,” the minister emphasized. He warned that reckless actions by a few could jeopardize the livelihoods of farmers, the credibility of Pakistan’s certification system, and the country’s hard-earned reputation in global markets. Under the minister’s directives, the Department of Plant Protection (DPP), operating under the Ministry of National Food Security and Research, has implemented significant reforms across key agricultural sectors, including rice, maize, citrus, and mangoes, to ensure SPS compliance. During the 2025 mango season, several measures were introduced to enhance transparency and eliminate malpractice. These included: On May 25, 2025, acting on the minister’s instructions, the DPP intercepted a major violation at Jinnah International Airport, Karachi. In collaboration with Pakistan Customs, three mango consignments totaling 6.2 metric tons and valued at USD 25,649, destined for Norway, were stopped due to blatant non-compliance with EU phytosanitary protocols. The exporters, M/s Pak Punjab International, M/s Sajjad & Co., and M/s Kamran Enterprises, attempted to bypass critical SPS requirements, including Hot Water Treatment (HWT), sourcing from registered orchards, pesticide residue analysis, and proper HS code declaration. Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain strongly condemned the violation, stating: “Such irresponsible acts do not harm a single consignment — they risk shutting down Pakistan’s entire export window to Europe. Those involved are not just violating rules; they are acting against national interests. We will ensure the strictest penalties and zero tolerance for such elements.” As a corrective measure, Customs confiscated the non-compliant consignments and imposed penalties on the violators. The DPP also barred the exporters from future exports for a specified period. Despite these challenges, Pakistan has successfully exported approximately 120,000 metric tons of mangoes during the 2025 season without a single rejection or interception reported from any country.