Date Demand Peaks Before Ramadan
Pakistan ranks among the leading date-producing countries in the world, with major cultivation concentrated in Sindh and Balochistan. The Aseel variety from Khairpur enjoys international recognition for its premium quality and rich taste.
As Ramadan approaches, demand for dates rises sharply in local markets. A wide range of varieties—both local and imported—are available, catering to different price segments and consumer preferences.
Shopkeepers say sales increase dramatically during the holy month, often making it difficult to meet market demand. To bridge the supply gap, large quantities of dates are imported from neighboring Iran.
However, traders have expressed concern over a significant rise in import taxes. According to a local vendor, previously the tax on a single container ranged between Rs100,000 to Rs150,000. Now, the tax has reportedly surged to between Rs800,000 and Rs1 million per container.
This sharp increase has resulted in an estimated additional cost of around Rs2,000 per maund, directly impacting retail prices.
“In such circumstances, it becomes extremely difficult to sell dates at lower prices,” the trader said, adding that rising import costs are ultimately passed on to consumers.